Nigeria Customs operatives seize 2,940 parcels of cannabis sativa
Story from Haruna YUSUF
The Acting Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, highlighted the grave consequences of illicit importation, particularly drugs, on the youth. He emphasized how it poses a significant threat to public health, safety, social development, and economic progress.
During a showcase of recent seizures of suspected Cannabis Sativa at the Ogun II Area Command on August 7th, 2023, the Acting CGC praised the relentless efforts of customs officers in intercepting cannabis sativa within Zone A.
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“We are pleased to announce the recent achievements and unwavering dedication of our officers in combating the smuggling of cannabis sativa within Zone A of the Nigeria Customs Service,” said Adeniyi.
The details of the seizures include the interception of 14,015 parcels of Cannabis Sativa by officers from FOU Zone A. The total weight of the seized drugs amounted to 7,728 kilograms, with a Duty Paid Value of NGN 618,240,000. These items were recovered from a boat in the creeks around Ajah and Ijebu-ode area. Three suspects involved in the smuggling were handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation.
The Acting CGC also shared that joint patrol teams and border drill operatives from sector 2 made similar seizures. “On August 3rd, 2023, at approximately 0400hrs, a joint patrol team comprising of officers from the Western Marine Command intercepted a wooden boat containing two Yamaha outboard engines (40 Horsepower) and 103 sacks of what appeared to be Cannabis Sativa. The total weight of the substance was 3,811 kilograms, with a Duty Paid Value of NGN 32,193,000.”
He further disclosed another seizure that occurred on August 7th, 2023, at 0315hrs. Intelligence led to the discovery of 2,940 parcels of Cannabis Sativa concealed amidst a load of pineapple fruits in an unregistered white Fiat bus on Sokoto/ijoun road, Yewa North Local Government Area of Ogun State.
Regarding the arrests made in connection with the seizures, Adeniyi stated, “Two suspects, Mr. Akeem Olatunde – a driver, and Mr. Abdul Nurudeen Adedeji – a passenger, have been apprehended and are currently in custody pending further investigation.”
He reassured the citizenry that the service remains steadfast in delivering on its statutory mandate.
“The Nigeria Customs Service remains steadfast in delivering on its statutory mandates and protecting our beloved nation from the scourge of illicit drugs.
“We assure the public that details of our investigations will be made available to ensure transparency and accountability”, he concluded.
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