In a sweeping operation aimed at combating illicit activities, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Tincan Command has seized illicit drugs and pharmaceutical products valued at over N4. 1 billion, underscoring its robust efforts to dismantle criminal networks across the country.
Addressing Pressmen in Lagos earlier today, Comptroller-General of the NCS, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, highlighted the latest seizures and reaffirmed the NCS’s steadfast commitment to protecting Nigeria’s borders and communities. He noted recent successful operations targeting illegal shipments, including drugs, arms, wildlife, and petroleum products.
According to the CGC, these interceptions underscored the NCS’s ongoing efforts to combat criminal networks seeking to undermine national security and economic stability through unlawful means.
“The misuse of substances like Cannabis Indica and codeine poses grave threats to our society,” Adeniyi emphasized, citing their detrimental impact on youth and societal well-being.
He underscored that these substances not only endanger public health but also fuel criminal activities and societal instability.
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Detailing the seizures, Adeniyi disclosed that the Tincan Command of the NCS intercepted two containers:
– Container 1 (40ft): Disguised within were 3 plastic drums containing packets of Cannabis Indica and 46 bags totaling 2,144 packets, with a combined weight of 1,072 kilograms. The estimated street value of these seized substances is N3,216,000,000.00 (Three Billion Two Hundred Sixteen Million Naira).
– Container 2 (40ft): Originating from India, this shipment contained 877 cartons of Barcadin cough syrup with codeine (each carton holding 200 bottles of 100ml) and 82 cartons of Really Extra Diclofenac Sodium 50mg tablets (with 600 packs per carton). The approximate street value of the intercepted cough syrup is N964,339,348.00 (Nine Hundred and Sixty Four Million, Three Hundred and Thirty Nine Thousand, Three Hundred and Forty Eight Naira).
Adeniyi reiterated that these operations demonstrate the NCS’s unwavering resolve to intercept and dismantle criminal operations. He acknowledged the collaborative efforts with agencies such as the Nigeria Drug and Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), stressing their pivotal role in achieving these significant milestones.
“We call upon all patriotic Nigerians to engage solely in legitimate business activities,” Adeniyi urged, underscoring the NCS’s commitment to supporting lawful trade while combating illicit practices.
CGC Adeniyi expressed gratitude to the media for their role in raising awareness and urged continued cooperation from stakeholders and the public in the ongoing fight against illicit activities.
