By Sandra Chukwunyere
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Apapa Area Command, in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), has made a significant breakthrough in the fight against international drug trafficking.
On January 2, 2026, they intercepted 30 slabs of cocaine weighing 30.1 kilograms concealed onboard the MV Aruna, a Marshall Islands-flagged vessel, at the Greenview Terminal within Apapa Port, Lagos.
This seizure marks a major blow to smugglers attempting to exploit the nation’s busiest seaport. The illicit substance was carefully hidden aboard the ship, highlighting the sophisticated tactics employed by traffickers.
However, the vigilance and professionalism of the officers from both agencies ensured that the attempt was foiled.
Customs Area Controller (CAC),Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba of Apapa Command commended the Officers for their outstanding work, stating that the achievement reflects the strong inter-agency synergy and commitment to intelligence-led enforcement.
Comptroller Oshoba reaffirmed the Command’s zero-tolerance policy towards illicit trade, ensuring that no smuggling attempt succeeds under his watch. The seized cocaine has been formally handed over to the NDLEA for further investigation and potential prosecution of those involved.
He said, the latest bust marks the third major drug interception by the joint NCS-NDLEA team in recent weeks. The Command remains steadfast in its mandate to facilitate legitimate trade while safeguarding national security. In recent weeks, the agencies have also seized 25.5kg of cocaine hidden in five bags aboard another vessel and 1,187kg of “Canadian Loud” cannabis concealed within imported vehicles in a 1x40ft container.
The Apapa Port Command has intensified scrutiny of all inbound and outbound cargoes to protect national security and the economy from prohibited items.
The CAC warned that anyone attempting to test their resolve would face the full wrath of the law. The joint operation reinforces the increasing vigilance of Nigerian security agencies as they intensify scrutiny of imports through the nation’s busiest seaport.
CSC Isah Sulaiman, the Public Relations Officer of the NCS Apapa Area Command, confirmed the seizure, attributing it to credible intelligence and seamless inter-agency cooperation.
