ZAINAB JUNAID
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Western Marine Area Command, has intercepted 53 sacks of cannabis sativa weighing 1,958kg with a duty-paid value of N398,265,000.
Customs Area Controller (CAC) Comptroller PK Bamisaiye while showcasing the seizures to journalists
Customs Area Controller (CAC) Comptroller PK Bamisaiye disclosed this in a statement issued by the public relations officer, Chief Superintendent of Customs, CSC Lomba Benjamin, on Friday.
He revealed that the seizures were made on Thursday 20 February, 2025, at about 2300 hours (11pm).
The 53 sacks of cannabis sativa seized by WMC
According to him, Customs Officers, acting on credible intelligence, were patrolling the ilase sea beach area at about 200 nautical miles from the Lagos anchorage when they sighted the smugglers.
“The smugglers tried to outrun our officers but when they couldn’t, they decided to abandon their boat by jumping into the sea. The boat was quickly secured and brought to the office where it was found to contain 3,793 loaves of cannabis sativa divided into 53 sacks and weighted 1,958kg. The Duty paid value of the seizure is N398,265,000,” Comptroller Bamisaiye said.
Comptroller Bamisaiye attributed the seizure to the intensified efforts of the officers of the Command.
He appreciated the CGC and his management team for being instrumental in supporting the fight against smuggling operations by providing critical resources and equipment to the Command.
Comptroller Bamisaiye further affirmed that In line with the established procedures, the hard drugs will be handed over to Nigeria Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
“In addition, we shall continue to partner with other sister agencies in ensuring that our nation’s borders are well protected,” he stated.
“This seizure is consistent with the Command’s resolve as earlier stated to sustain its anti-smuggling drive and operations. The Command re-iterate its commitment to making our waterway axis a no safe haven for smugglers thereby creating a secure and thriving environment free from all illicit goods.
“Consequently, The Command is warning all unpatriotic elements to desist from this illegal business or they will be apprehended and made to face the full wrath of the law,” Comptroller Bamisaiye added.
This seizure comes two months after the Command intercepted 15 sacks of cannabis sativa weighing 538kg, valued at N107,205,000.
It is a significant achievement for the WMC and demonstrates the Command’s commitment to combating smuggling and other illicit activities.
