Western Marine Command Hand Over N152m Worth Of Cannabis Sativa To NDLEA
Kathy Kyari
18 bags containing 730 kg of cannabis sativa have been turned over to the NDLEA by the Nigeria Customs Service's (NCS) Western Marine Command.
Comptroller Paul Bamisaiye, the Customs Area Controller, who was speaking to news men at a briefing on Wednesday in Lagos, revealed that the seized cannabis had a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N152 million.
According to Bamisaiye, the seizure happened at Mopol Beach in Lagos around 2:30 a.m. on April 15th 2025 as a result of an intelligence-led operation. Using a 40 HP Yamaha outboard engine, officers discovered smugglers trying to remove the cannabis bags from a wooden boat.
"The smugglers fled on sighting the officers, leaving behind the boat and items, which were secured and taken to the Customs office.
Between January and December 2024, the command made 40 seizures with a total DPV of ₦1.16 billion."
"Notable among these were 22,075 litres of petrol (PMS) with a DPV of ₦18.2 million.
Other seizures included 1,556 bags of 50kg parboiled rice valued at ₦172.7 million, and 138 cartons of frozen products worth ₦10.1 million."
"Also seized were 8,006 loaves of cannabis sativa, valued at ₦955.3 million, which have been handed over to the NDLEA.
Further seizures in 2024 included 100 plastic bottles of codeine syrup, with a DPV of ₦1.2 million."
According to Bamisaiye, the command made nine seizures and detained four individuals in the first quarter of 2025. He however noted that every enforcement action complies with the Nigeria Customs Service Act of 2023's provisions.
"During Q1 2025, the command also intercepted 704 bags of 50kg parboiled rice, valued at ₦71.1 million. "Additionally, 4,856 loaves of cannabis sativa were intercepted, having a DPV of ₦585.6 million.
“Another seizure included 392 plastic bottles of 300ml codeine syrup, valued at ₦6.8 million,” he said.
Bamisaiye indicated that the total DPV for seizures in Q1 2025 was over ₦702 million, which is 8.7% more than the ₦645 million in Q1 2024.
He reiterated the command's dedication to maintaining its operational successes and enhancing anti-smuggling initiatives.
The CAC commended Bashir Adeniyi, the Comptroller-General of Customs, for his guidance and assistance. Additionally, he complimented the media and stakeholders for their efforts to raise awareness and encourage collaboration against smuggling.
He asserts that creating a safer and healthier society for everybody depends on teamwork.
NDLEA Commander Marine Mr. Emmanuel Udoh, who spoke at the ceremony, promised a comprehensive examination of the cannabis that was seized. He also thanked the NCS for continuing to support the agency's efforts to combat drug use.
0 Comments