By Sandra Chukwunyere
The Western Marine Command Ibafo Lagos of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has done it again! In a major anti-smuggling operation, the Command intercepted 20 sacks of Cannabis Indica, worth a whopping ₦157.8 million.
The illicit drugs were cleverly concealed and smuggled into the country through the waterways, but the vigilant Officers of the Command were not fooled.
Addressing the press, Comptroller Patrick Ntadi, Area Controller of Customs, Western Marine Command, on Wednesday praised his team’s efforts. “This seizure is a testament to our unwavering commitment to suppressing smuggling activities and transnational crimes within our jurisdiction,” he said.
The Command has also been facilitating legitimate trade, escorting 21,414 containers from the main ports to various bonded terminals. This has ensured compliance with Customs regulations, enhanced transparency, and promoted efficient cargo movement across the port system.
He also stated that the achievements of the Western Marine Command are a result of effective leadership, intelligence gathering, and inter-agency collaboration with sister security agencies.
According to Comptroller Ntadi, WMC remains resolute in its fight against smuggling and other criminal activities that threaten national security and economic stability. The Command’s efforts have not gone unnoticed, with the Comptroller-General of Customs, CGC Adewale Bashir Adeniyi, MFR, psc+, praising their dedication to duty.
The NCS Western Marine Command’s latest success is a clear message to smugglers: “We are watching, and we will catch you!” The Command will continue to work tirelessly to protect the nation’s borders and economy.
“The seizure of the Cannabis Indica is a significant blow to smugglers and a boost to the country’s efforts to curb the spread of illicit drugs.” “The NCS Western Marine Command is committed to making Nigeria a difficult place for smugglers to operate”.
The Command’s efforts have earned them praise from various stakeholders, including the media. Newspoint247 reports that the Western Marine Command is making waves in the fight against smuggling.
