The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) on Friday announced that it intercepted hard drugs worth over N4.1 billion that were imported from Canada and India. The seizures were made at the Tin Can Island Port within one month.
Addressing newsmen in Lagos, the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, said the ongoing collaborative efforts between the NCS and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have consistently yielded positive results. He reiterated that this synergy exemplifies the effectiveness of pooling resources and intelligence, reinforcing the commitment of government agencies to safeguard the nation’s borders and protect its citizens from smuggling threats.
“It is against this background that the NCS is pleased to provide an update on the seizure of two containers of unwholesome importations: one 40ft container of regulated unregistered pharmaceutical products and another 40ft container of illicit psychotropic substances seized by the Tin Can Command of the Service,” Adeniyi said.
“Details of the seized containers are as follows: three plastic drums concealing several packets of Cannabis Indica, and 46 bags containing 2,144 packets of Cannabis Indica, all weighing 1,072 kilograms, seized from container No. GAOU 669921/5 imported from Canada. The approximate street value of the illicit substances is N3.216 billion.
“Others are 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. The approximate street value of the cough syrup is N964.339 million.”
According to him, the mis-use and abuse of drugs, particularly Cannabis Indica and codeine, pose severe dangers to society. Codeine, a restricted drug in Nigeria, has been widely abused, leading to devastating effects on the 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 added.
“These drugs, for instance, are used as stimulants by criminals, further fueling societal unrest and instability. Additionally, the proceeds from the illicit drug trade are often used to finance disruptions by non-state actors, posing a significant threat to our national security and economic stability.”
Adeniyi highlighted that this operation reveals a troubling trend and the evolving tactics of criminality and insecurity in the country. However, it also showcases the NCS’s resolve to remain vigilant and its ability to intercept and disrupt the activities of those who seek to harm the nation.
He commended the Customs Area Controller of the Tin Can Command, Comptroller Dera Nnadi, and his officers for their steadfastness and efforts in preventing the illicit drugs from leaving the port.
“We urge all patriotic Nigerians to continue their legitimate business activities, knowing that the NCS is actively working with stakeholders to ease the challenges faced by businesses and the general public,” he said.
