Nosa Aituamen
Officers of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Tincan Island Port Strategic Command in Lagos, have intercepted a significant quantity of exotic cannabis, weighing 63.75 kilograms, concealed within mattresses in an import container.
The discovery was made during a routine search of containers originating from Montreal, Canada, according to the Commander of the Tincan Island Port Strategic Command, Mitchell Ofoyeju.
Commander Ofoyeju highlighted the meticulous nature of the operation that led to the seizure of 128 parcels of cannabis indica.
He explained that three parcels were found hidden in the trunk of a Toyota Venza, while an additional 125 parcels were ingeniously concealed inside two large mattresses, requiring officers to cut them open for recovery.
The Commander noted a concerning trend of increased preference among drug users for Canadian-grown cannabis over locally produced varieties, attributing this to a perceived higher potency and the legalisation of recreational use in Canada.
He stated that the higher price commanded by imported cannabis fuels the desperation of drug traffickers to smuggle these substances into the country.
“This seizure was made possible through diligent surveillance and teamwork,” he affirmed.
Speaking on the agency’s efforts to curb the illicit drug trade, Commander Ofoyeju, emphasized the strengthening of inspection mechanisms at the seaport and enhanced international collaboration.
He underscored the severe socioeconomic, cultural, and health consequences associated with cannabis abuse, which remains the most abused drug in Nigeria.
Commander Ofoyeju reiterated the agency’s commitment to eradicating the flow of illicit drugs and warned that anyone found guilty would face the full consequences of the NDLEA Act.
He also appealed to the public to provide any information related to drug trafficking activities.
The NDLEA has confirmed the arrest of the suspected receiver of the shipment, identified as Bamidele Joseph, who is currently in custody and assisting with the ongoing investigation to identify all individuals involved in the importation.
Responding to the seizures, Chairman, NDLEA, Brig. General Buba Marwa, expressed his satisfaction with the successful operation, commending the officers for their vigilance and urging them to remain steadfast in their commitment to achieving a drug-abuse-free nation.