Value of Indian hemp ( cannabis sativa) seized by the western zone of the Nigeria Customs Service at intervals in the last one month is approximating N1 billion.
In a briefing today in Abeokuta, Customs Comptroller General Adewale Adeniyi, MFR articulated the several drug seizures in the zone in so short a time.
Today, we are pleased to announce the recent efforts and unwavering commitment of our officers in intercepting cannabis sativa within the NCS Zone
A operations. Specifically, by officers in FOU command, the western marine
command and the Sector 2 border drill operatives. Details of the seizures include:
Officers of FOU Zone A made seizures of 14,015 parcels of Cannabis Sativa, weighting 7,728 Kg with, translating to a Duty Paid Value of NGN 618,240,000 discharged from a boat at the creeks around Ajah and Ijebu-ode area. A total of 3 suspects and the items, were handed over to NDLEA on 2 August 2023 and are currently undergoing investigations.
On Thursday 3 August 2023, at about 0400hrs, a joint patrol team of officers intercepted a wooden boat with 2 Yamaha outboard engines (40 Horsepower) each containing 103 sacks containing 8,240 loaves of substance suspected to be Cannabis Sativa, weighting 3,811KG at a DPV of NGN 32,193,000.
On Monday 7 August 2023 at about 0315hrs credible intelligence led to the Seizure of of 2,940 parcels of Cannabis Sativa around Sokoto/ijoun road, Yewa North Local government Area of Ogun State. The Items were ingeniously concealed with heap of pineapple fruits loaded in an unregistered white fiat bus with chassis number 2FA23000006141966. 2 Suspects One Mr. Akeem olatunde – a driver and Mr. Abdul Nurudeen Adedeji – Passenger have been arrested and taken into custody pending further investigation.
Cannabis Sativa, commonly known as marijuana or Indian hemp, is a
psychoactive drug derived from the cannabis plant. It is known for its mindaltering effects and is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance due to its
potential for abuse and lack of accepted medical use. The abuse of cannabis Sativa
has far-reaching consequences on society, particularly on the youth. Its usage can
lead to impaired cognitive function, addiction, and negative impacts on mental
health and general wellbeing.
In recent times, there has been an alarming increase in the abuse of cannabis Sativa within the Nigerian society. The harmful effects of this substance on the youth cannot be overstated. It poses a significant challenge to public health and safety, as well as social and economic development. The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) recognizes the gravity of this situation and is determined to work with our partners to address these concerning trends, through robust measures to combat its proliferation and trade in Nigeria.
Perpetuators of this nefarious act use ingenious means to force the
proliferation of trade in Cannabis Sativa in Nigeria through various illicit means,
including the use of creeks, concealment through land borders, and even smuggling via air routes. The creative concealment techniques employed by traffickers present a significant challenge in the fight against this menace.
As the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), we recognize our critical role in protecting society from the entry of harmful substances. We are deeply committed to fulfilling our social contract with Nigerians, ensuring their safety and wellbeing by intercepting illicit drugs and other harmful substances. Announcement of Recent Efforts by NCS in Seizure of Cannabis Sativa.
I will conclude with the reassurance to our citizenry, that the Nigeria Customs Service remains steadfast in delivering on its statutory mandates and protecting our beloved nation from the scourge of illicit drugs. We assure the public that details of our investigations will be made available to ensure transparency and accountability.