The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone ‘A’ Ikeja, has made a significant seizure of cannabis sativa and foreign parboiled rice, alongside other prohibited items, with a total worth of N3.32 billion.

Area Controller, Aliyu Gambo, revealed this yesterday in Lagos, attributing the success to intelligence-led enforcement and a strategic overhaul of patrol operations within Lagos and its environs. The operation resulted in 144 seizures, showcasing a shift from predictable checkpoints to targeted deployments across the metropolis.

The seized items included a massive 6,954 bags of foreign parboiled rice, equivalent to approximately 12 trailer loads. In addition, Customs officials intercepted 77 bags of foreign sugar, 21 used vehicles, and a staggering 3,362 jerrycans of foreign vegetable oil. The crackdown also led to the confiscation of 20,700 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), 915 bales of used clothing, and a 20-foot container filled with stone-coated aluminum roofing sheets.

However, the most concerning seizure was the interception of 3,029 parcels of synthetic cannabis, popularly known as "Ghanaian Loud," weighing approximately 1,431 kilograms. Gambo emphasized the significance of this drug bust, stating that it represents a major disruption to criminal supply networks that fuel insecurity across Nigeria.

“These seizures occurred against the backdrop of rising banditry, terrorism and other social vices threatening national stability. Drug trafficking fuels these crimes by providing chemical stimulants that embolden perpetrators and erode social order,” he stated. He highlighted the connection between drug trafficking and the rise in violent crimes, underscoring the importance of Customs' role in combating these illegal activities.

Gambo further lamented the loss of one of the unit's officers in the line of duty on Tuesday. The incident has been formally reported to the Customs high command, highlighting the risks faced by officers in their efforts to protect the nation's borders and combat illicit trade. The loss underscores the dangers and challenges faced by law enforcement officials in their daily operations.

The Comptroller also stated that investigations are ongoing to apprehend those involved in the smuggling of the seized items. He reaffirmed the commitment of the NCS to continue its efforts in curbing smuggling and other illegal activities that undermine the Nigerian economy and threaten national security. He noted that the agency would not relent in its effort to bring perpetrators to justice.