NCS SEIZE ILLICIT DRUGS WORTH BILLIONS IN LAGOS
In a significant bust, the Nigeria Customs Service (NSC) has made a major breakthrough in its anti-smuggling campaign, intercepting a large consignment of illicit drugs and psychoactive substances worth N4.1 billion, smuggled into the country through the Tin Can Island Port, imported from India and Canada.
Comptroller-General Bashir Adewale Adeniyi of the Nigeria Customs Service showcased the significant seizures of codeine and cannabis at Tin Can Island Port on Friday, while emphasizing the Service’s commitment to exploring international collaborations and agreements to curb smuggling and enhance border security.”
Adeniyi also expressed concern that the rampant misuse and abuse of drugs, especially involving Cannabis Indica and Codeine, poses a significant threat to the well-being and safety of Nigeria citizens, necessitating an urgent response for effective countermeasures to these harmful effects.
His words: “Codeine, a restricted drug in Nigeria, has been widely abused, leading to devastating effects on our youth. This substance not only impairs the health and well-being of individuals but also contributes to the rise in criminal activities. Cannabis Indica, similarly, has become a significant concern, with its abuse leading to mental health issues, addiction, and social problems. Unchecked activities involving restricted items serve multiple purposes for criminal elements.”
He stated that these drugs are often used as stimulants by criminals, further fuelling societal unrest and instability even as the proceeds from the illicit drug trade also finance disruptions by non-state actors, posing a significant threat to national security.
The Customs boss gave details of the seized the containers as; “3 plastic drums concealing several packets of Cannabis Indica, 46bags containing 2,144 packets of Cannabis Indica all weighing 1,072kilogrammes (kg) seized from 01x40ft Container No. GAOU 669921/5imported from Canada. The approximate street value of the illicit substances is N3, 216,000,000.00”
“877 cartons of Barcadin cough syrup with codeine- 200 bottles of 100ml per carton and 82 cartons of Really Extra Diclofenac Sodium 50mg tablets – 600 packs per carton imported from India was seized. The approximate street value of the cough syrup is N964, 339,348.00”
While commending the Area Controller, TCIP, Comptroller Dera Nnadi mni, and the Command’s operatives for their resolve to remain vigilant to disrupt the activities of those who seek to harm the nation; the Customs CG described the seizures as a troubling trend indicating an evolving tactics of criminality and insecurity in the country.
He, however, assured that the NCS will continue to work closely with relevant national and international agencies to conduct operations that lead to the interception of illegal goods and the disruption of criminal networks.
“We urge all patriotic Nigerians to continue their legitimate business activities, assured that the NCS is actively working with stakeholders to ease the challenges faced by businesses and the general public,” the Customs CG remarked.
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