Emmanuel OchayiCustoms Officers Stop Truck with Cannabis in Kwara
The Nigeria Customs Service (NSC), Kwara Command, on Wednesday, announced a significant interception of illegal drugs.
Faith Ojeifo, the controller of Customs Area Kwara Command, revealed at a press briefing in Ilorin that the command seized a DAF truck carrying 1,153 parcels of Cannabis Sativa (marijuana).
Join our WhatsApp ChannelThe duty pay on this seizure is estimated at N57.448 million.
Details of the Operation
Ojeifo reported that the truck, registered as T-25750-LA, was stopped and searched along the Yamboa axis of Bukuro in Baruten Local Government Area on 3rd July 2024, at about 5 p.m.
“The driver abandoned the vehicle and fled into the bush when he realised our officers had discovered the concealment,” Ojeifo said.
“Our operatives’ keen observations triggered further investigation, leading to the discovery of 1,135 wraps of marijuana hidden in the truck’s specially modified inner spaces.”
Impact on Customs Operations
The seizure is part of broader efforts by the Kwara Command, which also generated N3.3 billion between July and August this year.
Ojeifo emphasised that this revenue has been deposited into the Federal Government coffers. “We’ve also seized 110 kegs containing 2,750 litres of petrol, valued at N550,000, from smugglers attempting to export it to neighboring countries,” she added.
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The seized petrol has been auctioned, with proceeds also remitted to the government.
Customs Tactics and Officer Recognition
Ojeifo praised the commitment of her team, noting, “The innovative approaches we’ve adopted, including reorganising patrol teams and enhancing surveillance, have proven effective.”
She also highlighted a pledge to honor exceptional officers, saying, “Our officers’ diligence in this operation will be recognised. Their performance has been outstanding.”
Broader Implications and NDLEA Response
Fatima Popoola, the Kwara State NDLEA controller, expressed concern over the growing drug issue in Nigeria. “It is alarming that about 4.3 million Nigerians are involved in drug abuse,” Popoola said.
The continued efforts of the Customs and NDLEA are crucial in combating this issue.
