Customs hands over N3.95b seized cannabis, drugs to NDLEA

By Oluwayanmife Lucas

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit, Zone ‘A’, has handed over narcotic drugs and pharmaceutical products worth N3.95 billion to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for investigation and prosecution.

The seized items, intercepted during anti-smuggling operations along border corridors, highways and other strategic locations within the zone, included 3,116.9kg of synthetic strain of cannabis sativa contained in 5,669 parcels and 19 sacks.

Also seized were different forms of cannabis, including 3.45kg of grinded cannabis (Skunk), 1kg and 0.35kg of granulated cannabis, as well as 26.1kg of cannabis in 49 wraps.

Customs also intercepted a wrap of crystal methamphetamine weighing 0.35kg and 24 packets of Backwoods Russian Cream cigars.

The Comptroller of the Federal Operations Unit, Zone ‘A’, Gambo Aliyu, who disclosed this during the formal handover, said the seizures were part of sustained operations against drug trafficking syndicates and other smuggling networks operating within the zone.

He said three suspects arrested in connection with the seizures would also be handed over to the NDLEA alongside the narcotics.

Other controlled substances handed over included 1,754 packs and 6,948 sachets of 225mg and 100mg Tramadol tablets, 1,200 Hypnox tablets and 97 bottles of Codeine syrup.

Aliyu said the seizure of the drugs was necessary because the illegal movement of controlled substances posed a threat to public health and national security.

He said the Customs Service would continue to work with the NDLEA to disrupt the movement of narcotics and other illicit goods through the country’s borders.

“The formal transfer of these items to the NDLEA will enable the agency to conduct the appropriate forensic, investigative and prosecutorial processes in accordance with the law,” he said.

In a separate seizure, Customs intercepted four cylinders of high-grade mercury, each weighing 34.5kg, allegedly intended for use in illegal gold mining.

Aliyu said the mercury, which has environmental and health implications, would be handed over to the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) for further action.

He said the seizures demonstrated the need for continued cooperation among security and regulatory agencies, particularly through intelligence sharing, joint operations and prompt transfer of seized items to agencies with the statutory mandate to handle them.

The Customs chief said the unit would continue to deploy intelligence-driven operations and surveillance to disrupt smuggling networks while facilitating legitimate trade.

He added that the service would maintain its enforcement against narcotics trafficking, environmental crimes and the movement of prohibited and improperly regulated goods.