Customs, NDLEA Intercept 1,187kg of Canadian ‘Loud’ at Apapa Port, Five Days After Cocaine Bust
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have recorded yet another major breakthrough in their joint fight against drug trafficking, with the interception of 1,187 kilogrammes of Canadian ‘Loud’, a premium and highly potent strain of cannabis, at the Apapa Port in Lagos.
The seizure comes barely five days after both agencies uncovered 25.5kg of cocaine on a Brazilian-flagged vessel, underscoring what authorities describe as a renewed and formidable crackdown on narcotics smuggling through Nigeria’s busiest seaport.
According to a statement issued on Thursday by the Public Relations Officer of the Apapa Port Command, CSC Isah Sulaiman, the latest interception followed credible intelligence shared by the NDLEA, which prompted a joint examination of a 1x20ft container with number FCIU 6369526.
The container, declared to be laden with two imported vehicles, was found to conceal 2,374 packages of cannabis hidden inside 55 bags. Each sachet of the illicit drug reportedly weighed 500 grammes, bringing the total weight to 1,187kg. The NDLEA has since taken custody of the consignment.
Speaking on the discovery, the Customs Area Controller of the Apapa Port Command, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, praised the strengthened collaboration between the NCS and the NDLEA, describing it as a strategic asset in staying ahead of criminal networks.
“Few days ago, I stated that no consignment will exit our control from this port without due check. Our synergy as agencies of government will always put us ahead of criminal elements,” he said.
Comptroller Oshoba reaffirmed the Service’s zero tolerance for smuggling, emphasising that national security and economic integrity are paramount.
“No matter the volume of trade we are processing, we will never sacrifice national security and economy for any form of trade. While we are focused on collecting maximum revenue for government, our eagle-eyed officers are activated to be alert at all times,” he added.
Issuing a stern warning to importers, exporters, freight forwarders, and licensed customs agents, the Area Controller cautioned that anyone attempting to test the resolve of the command during the Yuletide season and beyond would face the full wrath of the law.
Investigations into the seizure are ongoing, with authorities assuring that all perpetrators involved will be prosecuted.
The interception marks another significant stride in Nigeria’s efforts to curb drug trafficking through maritime channels, a challenge that has persisted despite increased surveillance and inter-agency collaboration.
