Remarkable : Customs at TinCan Port seizes dangerous drugs worth over N4bn from Canada, India
Remarkable : Customs at TinCan Port seizes dangerous drugs worth over N4bn from Canada, India
The Nigeria Customs Service has again demonstrated its proactiveness in thwarting illegal activities of drugs syndicate in the country, as its officers seized illicits drugs with street value of over N4billion.
The large quantities of dangerous drugs displayed in the open before Journalists were seized at TinCan Port, by enforcement officers of TinCan Island Port Command, using superior intelligence.
Addressing Journalists today at TinCan Command, the Comptroller General of Customs, CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, revealed that the large consignments of prohibited drugs included Cannabis Indica, Codeine, as well as other offensive items.
He further disclosed that the consignments of Cannabis Indica were imported from Canada, while the Codeine came from India, even as he suspected involvement of port operators and some officers.
His words : “The Nigerian government under President Bola Ahmed led Administration is determined to stabilise the economy and create an environment where all citizens can thrive and prosper. As part of these efforts, the NCS plays a crucial role not only in revenue collection from legitimate trade but also in
protection of our society. Our mandate includes ensuring that harmful and illegal substances do not find their way into our communities.
“It is within this context that the ongoing collaborative efforts between the NCS and Nigeria Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) consistently yielded positive results.
“Recall that in the past, I reiterated that the synergy between NCS and its partner agencies exemplifies the effectiveness of pooling resources and intelligence, reinforcing the commitment of our agencies to safeguarding the nation’s borders and protecting its citizens from the threats posed by smuggling”.
The CGC went on : “It is against this background that NCS is pleased to provide an update on yet another seizure of two containers of unwholesome importations of unregistered pharmaceutical products and another 40ft container of illicit psychotropic substances seized by Tincan Command of the Service. Details of the seized containers include plastic drums concealing several packets of Cannabis Indica, 46bags containing 2,144 packets of Cannabis Indica, all weighing 1,072kilogrammes (kg) seized from Canada.
“The approximate street value of the illicit substances is N3.2billion. We also have here 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 but seized. The approximate street value of the cough syrup is N964, 339,348.00 million”.
The CGC went on : “This operation highlights a troubling trend and the evolving tactics of criminality and insecurity in our country. However, it is also evident of the NCS resolve to remain vigilant and showcase our ability to intercept and disrupt the activities of those who seek to harm our nation.”
CGC Adeniyi emphasised : “The NCS will continue to work closely with relevant national and international agencies to conduct operations that lead to the interception of illegal goods and disruption of criminal networks. We urge all patriotic Nigerians to continue their legitimate business activities, assured that the NCS is actively working with stakeholders to ease the challenges faced by businesses and the public”.
The CGC who expressed strong displeasure against illicit drugs, pointed out: “These interceptions brought to light a concerning trend wherein criminal networks engage in collaborative attempts to subvert the competency of the agencies tasked with mitigating the trafficking of such illicit substances.
“The misuse and abuse of drugs, particularly Cannabis Indica and codeine, pose severe dangers to our society. Codeine, a restricted drug in Nigeria, has been widely abused, leading to devastating effects on our youths. 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 illicit drug trade are often used to finance disruptions by non-state actors, posing a significant threat to our national security and economic stability.”