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The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Apapa Area Command, said it intercepted 25.5 kilograms of cocaine concealed aboard a Brazilian vessel, MV San Anthonio.
The Command noted that the illegal substance was discovered in 24 parcels and packed into five bags during a detailed examination of the vessel. The ship was immediately detained by customs authorities.
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Emmanuel Oshoba, the Customs Area Controller, said that customs intelligence units got suspicious of the vessel’s travel history, departing from Brazil and making stops in Honduras, Guatemala, and other drug trafficking hubs.
“This seizure and detention of the ship should send a strong message of warning that will resonate in the camp of perpetrators of unlawful trade within our port system. Customs is strengthening its synergy with all sister government agencies, and no criminal or group of lawless persons can beat us here”, he stated.
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The area controller said that all consignments exiting this port into Nigeria’s markets or warehouses must be duly examined, with the contents ascertained to be what was declared. “As we approach the Yuletide season, we will not sacrifice national security and economy on the altar of trade facilitation,” the CAC added.
The seized items were handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation and necessary action.
