In a significant victory against transnational drug trafficking, the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) has handed over a massive haul of cocaine valued at N1 billion, an arrested suspect, and the vehicle used for conveyance to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) at FOU, Lagos.
The handover, conducted at the Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone A, showcased the fruits of vigilant border security and seamless inter-agency collaboration. Comptroller-General of Customs, Dr. Bashir Adeniyi, detailed the operation: in the early hours of February 10th (0300hrs), eagle-eyed NCS officers intercepted a Toyota Highlander along the critical Badagry-Seme axis. The vehicle was found to be transporting 22 packages of a substance suspected to be cocaine, weighing approximately 25 kilograms.
A male suspect, identified as Adeniran Aliyu, was arrested at the scene. Investigations indicate the illicit consignment originated in Ghana.
Represented by Deputy Comptroller General of Enforcement, Timi Bomodi, CG Adeniyi emphasized the seizure’s critical importance. He stated it was executed under the powers granted by Section 55(1)(c) of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, which mandates the Service to enforce prohibitions protecting public health, safety, and national security.
“This seizure aligns squarely with our mandate to protect the health and lives of Nigerians,” Adeniyi stated. “Our commitment is not merely to revenue collection or trade facilitation; it is a solemn pledge to protect society.”
Highlighting the crucial partnership with the NDLEA, Adeniyi formally handed over the seized drugs, suspect Aliyu, and the Toyota Highlander. He stressed this action was in strict accordance with the NDLEA Act and reinforced the existing Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the two agencies.
“By acting decisively on intelligence, by collaborating with sister agencies like the NDLEA, and by upholding the rule of law, the Nigeria Customs Service remains steadfast in our vigilance, adaptive in the face of evolving threats, and unyielding in our dedication to a safer, healthier Nigeria,” the Comptroller-General declared.
Receiving the significant haul, suspect, and vehicle, Commander Abubakar Liman Wali of the NDLEA Lagos Strategic Command lauded the NCS for its vigilance and effective action.
“This handover powerfully reflects the effectiveness of the Memorandum of Understanding between our agencies and the renewed, vigorous push to dismantle cross-border drug trafficking networks threatening our nation,” Commander Wali stated.
He assured the public and the NCS that the NDLEA would conduct a thorough investigation, including field testing and forensic analysis of the exhibits, to ensure all individuals connected to the N1 billion cocaine shipment face justice.
“The NDLEA remains absolutely committed to working hand-in-glove with our partner agencies like Customs to safeguard Nigeria and its citizens from the scourge of illicit drugs and associated criminal activities,” Commander Wali concluded.
This major interception and seamless handover underscore the strengthened resolve and cooperation between Nigeria’s key security agencies in combating the flow of dangerous narcotics across the nation’s borders, marking a positive step towards enhanced national security and public health protection.
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