The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) on Friday said that it intercepted hard drugs worth over N4.1 billion imported from Canada and India at the Tin Can Island Port within the period of one month.
Addressing newsmen in Lagos, the Comptroller General of Customs Bashir Adewale Adeniyi said that it is within this context that the ongoing collaborative efforts between the NCS and the Nigeria Drug and Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have consistently yielded positive results.
He reiterated that the collaborative synergy between NCS and its partner agencies exemplifies the effectiveness of pooling resources and intelligence, reinforcing the commitment of government’s agencies to safeguarding the nation’s borders and protecting its citizens from the threats posed by smuggling.
“It is against this background that NCS is pleased to provide an update on yet another seizure of two containers of unwholesome importations comprising of 01x40ft container of regulated unregistered pharmaceutical products and another 01x40ft container of illicit psychotropic substances seized by Tin Can Command of the Service.
“Details of the seized the containers are as follows: three (3) plastic drums concealing several packets of Cannabis Indica, 46 bags containing 2,144 packets of Cannabis Indica all weighing 1,072kilogrammes (kg) seized from 01x40ft 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 was seized. The approximate street value of the cough syrup is N964.339 million,” he said.
Adeniyi said the abuse of drugs, particularly Cannabis Indica and codeine, pose severe dangers to the society, adding that Codeine, a restricted drug in Nigeria, has been widely abused, leading to devastating effects on the youth in the country.
“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.
“These drugs, for instance, are used as stimulants by criminals, further fuelling 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,” he said.
He hinted that this operation highlights a troubling trend and the evolving tactics of criminality and insecurity in the country.
He said it also is evident of the NCS resolve to remain vigilant and showcase the Service 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 their efforts for not allowing the illicit drugs to out of 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 added.
Copyright Ships & Ports Ltd. Permission to use quotations from this article is granted subject to appropriate credit given to www.shipsandports.com.ng as the source.
