The Ogun Area 1 Command of the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) has seized illicit drugs worth N117,587,405 in Duty Paid Value, marking a significant victory against drug trafficking in the region. The haul, which included cannabis sativa and Tramaking tablets, was intercepted in various locations across Ogun State and later handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

During a media briefing on Friday, Comptroller James Ojo, the Controller of Ogun Area 1, highlighted the alarming rise in drug smuggling and its implications for national security. “The scale of illicit drug smuggling in recent times is alarming and worrisome,” Ojo said, emphasizing the urgency of tackling this growing threat.

Details of the Seized Contraband

The operation uncovered a massive quantity of drugs, including:

  • 5,256 coconut-size wraps of Cannabis Sativa valued at ₦46,981,742
  • 46 book-size wraps of Cannabis Sativa worth ₦411,179
  • 1,202 bread-size wraps of Cannabis Sativa valued at ₦10,744,302
  • 403 sacks of Cannabis Sativa worth ₦16,010,182

In total, the seized items amounted to 403 sacks and 6,504 parcels of cannabis sativa, weighing 7,217.7 kg. Additionally, 362 packs of Tramaking tablets (225mg each) were confiscated from trafficking hotspots, including Agbawo/Iganokoto in Yewa North and Imeko Afon Local Government Areas.

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Sustained Efforts in Combating Drug Smuggling

Ojo noted that between January and November 21, 2024, the Command has intensified its intelligence-driven operations to curtail smuggling activities. He shared that in a recent operation spanning October 13 to November 12, 2024, the team intercepted 1,373 parcels of cannabis sativa (weighing 1,337 kg) and 362 packs of Tramaking tablets abandoned in various locations.

“Our operatives are resolute in their commitment to combating drug smuggling. Traffickers should either desist or be prepared to face the full weight of the law,” Ojo warned, applauding his officers for their diligence and strategic execution.

NDLEA Commends Collaboration

Olusegun Adeyeye, Commander of the NDLEA Idiroko Special Command, praised the Customs for their unwavering efforts in intercepting illegal drugs and working collaboratively with the NDLEA. “This seizure demonstrates the successful collaboration between the NDLEA and Customs in combating drug abuse and smuggling,” Adeyeye remarked, underlining the importance of unified efforts in protecting Nigeria’s communities from the dangers of drug trafficking.