Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — The Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, has recorded its largest single seizure of cannabis sativa, intercepting 1,958 kilograms of the illegal substance valued at N398,265,000.
The Customs Area Controller, Western Marine Command, Comptroller Paul Bamisaiye, made the announcement while briefing newsmen stated that officers intercepted 3,793 loaves of cannabis along the waterways near Bar Beach Outstation.
According to him, the smugglers attempted to outrun the officers, but when they realized they could not escape, they abandoned their boat and jumped into the sea.
“Our officers, having received credible intelligence, were patrolling close to Ilase Sea Beach at about 200 nautical miles from the Lagos anchorage when they sighted the smugglers.
“The boat was quickly secured and brought to our office, where it was found to contain 3,793 loaves of cannabis packed in 53 sacks,” he added.
The Customs controller reaffirmed the command’s commitment to keeping Nigeria’s waterways free of illicit substances, warning smugglers that they will find no safe haven under his leadership.
“This seizure is consistent with our resolve to sustain an aggressive anti-smuggling drive. We are determined to make the waterways a hostile zone for smugglers and ensure a secure environment for legitimate trade.”
He also assured that the seized cannabis would be handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, for further investigation and prosecution, in line with established procedures.
