Customs seize ₦5.3 billion in drugs hidden in imported vehicles

By Aisha Cole

The Nigeria Customs Service, Tin Can Island Command, has intercepted two containers of vehicles concealing illicit drugs valued at over ₦5.3 billion, in a major crackdown on narcotics smuggling.

The seizures were confirmed in a statement by the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Frank Onyeka, who said the operation underscores the command’s commitment to intelligence-led border enforcement and trade compliance.

The first container, numbered HLXU8500072, arrived from Montreal, Canada, and was intercepted on Sept. 4 following detailed intelligence analysis. A joint physical examination revealed 156 packets of Colorado Indica totaling 78 kilograms and 1.2 kilograms of Hashish Oil hidden inside four imported vehicles.

The second container, FANU312876/9, was seized on Oct. 24 after actionable intelligence, uncovering 2,081 packages of Cannabis Indica weighing 1,093 kilograms and eight packages of Crystal Methamphetamine weighing eight kilograms, also concealed in four vehicles.

According to customs valuation reports, the total estimated value of the drugs is ₦5.304 billion.

Onyeka confirmed that the narcotics had been handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation and prosecution.

He commended the NDLEA, Navy, Police, and other agencies for their cooperation, stressing that the command remains vigilant and uncompromising in enforcing Nigeria’s laws and trade conventions.

Onyeka also urged importers and exporters to comply fully with customs regulations and maintain accurate documentation.

The Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, was acknowledged for his support, and Onyeka appreciated the media for its role in public sensitisation.

Receiving the seized items, Commander of Narcotics, NDLEA Tin Can Strategic Command, Daniel Onyishi, praised the Customs Service for its professionalism and vigilance.

Onyishi highlighted the importance of inter-agency collaboration in the fight against drug trafficking and assured that the NDLEA would conduct a thorough investigation and ensure legal disposal of the seized substances.