The Ondo/Ekiti Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has seized more than 140 sacks of Cannabis sativa, commonly known as Indian hemp, with a total weight exceeding 1,400 kilograms.
Valued at N112 million, the seized drugs, along with the suspects, were handed over to the Ondo State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
The Comptroller of the Command, Mrs Morenikeji Bewaji, revealed that the substance was intercepted in Ado Ekiti while two suspects were transporting it, before they were apprehended by the NCS patrol team.
Bewaji disclosed that the suspects, who were released on health-related bail, later fled. She noted that their surety, identified as Mr Victor Ayodeji, has since been apprehended and transferred to the NDLEA for legal action.
The Comptroller expressed concern over the alarming quantity of illegal drugs, especially cannabis sativa, describing it as a serious danger to society. She emphasised that drug abuse has contributed to rising criminality and insecurity, while also destabilising the nation’s socio-economic progress.
She stressed that ”In our fight against this threat of illicit drugs in our country, inter-agency collaboration remains a cornerstone for success. The partnership between the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the NDLEA is a shining example of effective synergy.
”Together, the two agencies have achieved significant milestones, and we are committed to further strengthening this collaboration to reduce if not totally eliminate, illicit drugs. We will continue to intensify our operations by leveraging intelligence, collaborating with other security agencies, and engaging critical stakeholders.”
She assured that both security agencies are committed to remaining resolute and focused on safeguarding the nation’s security, while also fostering legitimate trade.
Bewaji called on the public to collaborate with the NCS by providing timely and reliable information, emphasising that the fight against drug trafficking and other criminal activities requires a united effort.
In turn, the state commander of the NDLEA, Mr Nanzing Sallah, commended the NCS for its significant drug seizure.
Sallah, represented by Mr Adaramola Olumuyiwa, the Deputy Commander of Narcotics, assured that the collaboration between the agencies would persist in the fight against criminal activities in society.
