The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Tin Can Island Port Area Command has intercepted three containers carrying illicit drugs, specifically Cannabis Indica, with a total street value of ₦682,050,000. This seizure was announced during a press briefing held at the Command’s headquarters, where Customs Area Controller Dera Nnadi highlighted the ongoing efforts to curb the importation of dangerous substances into Nigeria.
During the ceremony, Nnadi disclosed that the Command received actionable intelligence regarding the suspected importation of illicit drugs from an overseas source. This intelligence led to the interception of the three containers now being showcased. The drugs seized are being handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) as part of the existing interagency collaboration between both organizations, reinforced by a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
The details of the intercepted containers are as follows:
The first container, numbered MSMU 518030/2, was subjected to a joint physical examination on August 2, 2024. The inspection revealed 77 packets of Cannabis Indica, weighing a total of 38.5 kg. According to Nnadi, the system profiling showed that a declaration had been made on July 30, 2024, listing the contents of the container as three used vehicles.
The second container, MSMU 602957/0, underwent a 100% physical examination on August 8, 2024. This inspection uncovered 532 packets of Cannabis Indica weighing 265.025 kg. At the time of the seizure, no official declaration had been made regarding its contents. The shipping company responsible for the consignment was identified as MSC.
The third container, FSCU 927461/3, was also examined on August 8, 2024, revealing 75 packets of Cannabis Indica weighing 37.5 kg. Similar to the second container, no declaration had been entered, and MSC was the shipping company involved.
In total, the Command has seized 684 packets of Cannabis Indica, weighing 341.025 kg. The NDLEA, in partnership with the NCS, is continuing its investigation into the matter, which includes tracking down the individuals responsible for the shipment and ensuring their prosecution. Nnadi emphasized that more containers of similar nature are expected to be seized and handed over after further consultations with Customs Headquarters.
“The Nigeria Customs Service, in collaboration with other regulatory agencies, will continue to deploy all necessary resources and strategies to combat the illegal importation of dangerous substances. We are committed to delivering on this mandate and ensuring the protection of Nigerian society,” Nnadi assured.
The Command extended its gratitude to the press and other stakeholders for their continued support in the fight against drug trafficking and criminal activities in Nigeria.