In preparation for the yuletide season, the Western Marine Customs Command has intensified its anti-smuggling efforts, resulting in a significant drug bust on December 16, 2024. The Command intercepted 15 sacks containing 1,021 loaves of Cannabis Sativa along the Ajido waterways in the Yekeme axis.
The illicit cargo, weighing a total of 538 kilograms, was thoroughly examined at the Command headquarters. It was valued at N107,205,000.00, highlighting the scale of the operation. The seizure underscores the Command’s commitment to curbing illegal activities as the holiday season approaches, with officials tightening security to prevent smuggling attempts
The Western Marine Customs Command struck another major blow against smugglers as officers intercepted a consignment of illicit drugs at a waterfront along the Ajido waterways. The suspected smugglers had grounded their boat, attempting to offload 15 sacks of Cannabis Sativa onto land when the vigilant patrol team closed in.
Upon spotting the officers, the suspects abandoned the contraband and fled the scene. Despite the challenging and hostile environment, the patrol team swiftly secured the sacks, loaded them onto their official boats, and transported the seized items to the Western Marine Command Headquarters for further investigation.
The spokesman emphasized the crucial role of the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC) and his management team in bolstering the fight against smuggling. Through the provision of critical resources and advanced equipment, the Western Marine Command has been empowered to deliver outstanding results, ensuring that smugglers find no refuge on the nation’s waterways. This, he noted, has fostered a safer environment for legitimate trade to thrive.
Comptroller Paul Bamisaiye reaffirmed his commitment to securing the waterways, particularly during the festive season, vowing to intensify efforts to keep smuggling activities at bay and ensure a secure trading landscape during this critical period.
The spokesman further noted that the Command is well aware of attempts by unpatriotic individuals to exploit the festive season for their smuggling operations. “We want to make it clear that we have perfected robust strategies to counter any such criminal activities during the yuletide period,” he warned.
Conclusively, he reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of the Nigeria Customs Service to safeguarding the nation’s waterways, ensuring they remain secure for lawful trade and legitimate activities to thrive.
