Western Marine Command Strikes Major Blow Against Cannabis Smuggling on Waterways
The Western Marine Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intensified its anti-smuggling operations, recording its largest single seizure of cannabis sativa under the leadership of Comptroller PK Bamisaiye.
The operation, which took place on Thursday, 20 February 2025, at approximately 11:00 p.m., highlights the Command’s unwavering commitment to curbing illicit trade along Nigeria’s waterways.
The latest bust comes just two months after the Command intercepted 15 sacks of cannabis sativa weighing 538kg, valued at N107,205,000.
This time, acting on credible intelligence, officers patrolling near Ilase sea beach – about 200 nautical miles from the Lagos anchorage – spotted a group of smugglers attempting to ferry the illegal substance across the waters.
According to Comptroller Bamisaiye, the smugglers, realising they could not outpace the officers, abandoned their boat and plunged into the sea to evade capture.
The Customs team swiftly secured the vessel and brought it to their base, where an inspection revealed 53 sacks containing 3,793 loaves of cannabis sativa, weighing 1,958kg. The illicit haul carries a duty-paid value of N398,265,000.
In his remarks, Comptroller Bamisaiye lauded the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC) and the NCS management team for their unwavering support in providing the resources and equipment necessary to combat smuggling.
He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to inter-agency collaboration, noting that, in accordance with established protocols, the seized narcotics would be handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further action.
“The Western Marine Command remains resolute in its mission to eliminate smuggling activities on our waterways,” he stated. “We will continue to make our territorial waters a no-go zone for illicit trade, ensuring a safe and secure environment for legitimate business operations.”
Issuing a stern warning to criminal elements, the Command urged all unpatriotic individuals engaged in smuggling to desist immediately or risk being apprehended and prosecuted.
This latest operation underscores the effectiveness of the Command’s strategic enforcement measures and reinforces its dedication to safeguarding Nigeria’s borders from illegal trade.
