By Sandra Chukwunyere
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Western Marine Command, has handed over large quantities of cannabis and controlled pharmaceutical products, all concealed in used clothing, to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), following a series of intelligence-led anti-smuggling operations across Nigeria’s waterways.
Speaking during a media briefing and official handover ceremony at the Command headquarters, the Customs Area Controller (CAC) ,Comptroller Patrick Ntadi, disclosed that Officers of the Command intercepted 822 loaves of cannabis, made up of cannabis sativa and cannabis indica, during operations carried out along the creeks and maritime routes.
He said the seized narcotics were formally handed over to the NDLEA for further investigation and destruction, while 532 bottles of pharmaceutical products, including codeine and other controlled substances, were transferred to NAFDAC.
Ntadi explained that smugglers attempted to evade security checks by concealing cannabis inside sacks containing second-hand clothing.
He noted that Customs operatives acted on credible intelligence before intercepting the consignment and uncovering the narcotics hidden within the used textiles.
“About 320 loaves of cannabis sativa were discovered inside 10 sacks of second-hand clothing,” he stated, describing the interception as a major success in the Command’s anti-smuggling campaign.
The operation also led to the seizure of 10 bales of used clothing, 569 pairs of used adult shoes, and 517 pairs of children’s shoes.
The Customs boss revealed that several suspects escaped arrest by jumping into surrounding waterways during the operation, a tactic frequently adopted by smugglers operating within coastal and creek areas.
Ntadi commended officers and men of the Western Marine Command for their dedication, professionalism and resilience despite the operational challenges associated with marine patrol activities.
He also praised the strong collaboration between the Nigeria Customs Service, NDLEA and NAFDAC, stressing that sustained inter-agency cooperation remains vital in combating drug trafficking, smuggling and other trans-border crimes.
Receiving the seized drugs on behalf of the NDLEA, Deputy Commander of Narcotics, Apapa Strategic Command, Mr. Olufemi, applauded Customs officers for their consistency and commitment in combating illegal drug trafficking.
He described the partnership between both agencies as critical in protecting the country from criminal networks involved in narcotics smuggling.
Olufemi warned smugglers and traffickers to desist from the illegal trade, stressing that offenders arrested would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
Meanwhile, the event also featured a special recognition for Comptroller Ntadi by the African International Wrestling Federation for his support towards anti-smuggling advocacy and youth development initiatives.
Representatives of the organisation unveiled a campaign tagged “Pro-Wrestling Against Border Smuggling,” aimed at using sports and entertainment platforms to sensitise young people on the dangers of smuggling, trafficking and related cross-border crimes.
According to the organisers, the initiative will promote lawful trade, youth empowerment and responsible citizenship through wrestling programmes, awareness campaigns and collaboration with security agencies, including the Western Marine, Tin Can and Apapa Customs Commands.
