The Nigeria Customs Service, Federal Operations Unit, Zone A, said it intercepted 6,488 kilograms of cannabis sativa worth N519m between April and September.
The Customs Area Controller in charge of FOU A, Kola Oladeji, disclosed this on Monday in Ikeja while handing over the seized contraband to officers of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency.
Oladeji added that four male suspects were arrested in connection with the seizures.
He explained that the contraband that was concealed in smaller vehicles was intercepted at different locations in Lagos on their way to the South-East and Northern parts of the country.
He stated that handing over of the contraband underscores the importance of inter-agency cooperation in combating the supply chain of illicit drugs in society.
“We are handing over 6, 488kg of cannabis sativa with a street value of N519m and four suspects to the NDLEA,” he said.
Oladeji warned that trading and distribution of illicit drugs such as cannabis sativa poses a grave danger to the communities.
According to him, these substances not only have detrimental effects on the individual’s health and well-being but also contribute to social problems such as crime and violence.
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He mentioned that the negative impact of these drugs calls for the need to work together for the reduction and the possible elimination of the presence of such substances in society.
“I want to caution the youths and traders who are involved in the distribution and sale of illicit drugs like cannabis sativa are not only putting their lives at risk but also jeopardizing the safety and security of our society as a whole,” Oladeji stated.
Oladeji maintained that there is a need for everyone to take a strong stand against the trade in illicit drugs and work towards creating a drug-free environment for both present and future generations.
He, however, appealed to the public to join the NCS in advocating against the trade in illicit drugs.
Oladeji reiterated the need to raise the bar concerning awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and also support the law enforcement agents who are combating drug trafficking.
“We can collectively make a significant impact in reducing the availability of illicit substances in our communities.
“I urge you to continue to work together with us as a team towards achieving a safer and healthier society for all,” he stated.
While receiving the contraband, the Deputy State Commander of NDLEA, Adekunle Makinde, lauded the NCS for the interception.
On behalf of the Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, General Buba Marwa (Rtd), I want to thank the NCS for this interception. We treat consumers of these substances as sick people while the dealers we arrest and prosecute them,” he said.
