by Henry Oladele
Lagos – Anti-narcotic officials with Seme Border Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), on Friday intercepted 5,863 kilogram mes (kg) of compressed dried weeds that tested positive for cannabis.
The Agency`s spokesperson, Mr Mitchell Ofoyeju, said that the illicit drugs were seized in two separate operations in Badagry, Lagos State.
“Four suspected drug traffickers were apprehended in connection with the seized drugs while two vehicles used in conveying them have been impounded by the agency.
“The estimated value of the drugs is N60m.
“The twin shipment of cannabis were made within 48 hours.
“The first consignment of cannabis weighing 3,525 kg was discovered in a clandestine warehouse where a Ghanaian and two female Nigerians were apprehended, Ofoyeju said in a statement.
He said that the following day, the command made a similar seizure of cannabis weighing 2,338 kg being smuggled in a Bus meant for distribution in Lagos.
According to him, a male suspect, was equally arrested in respect of the second seizure.
“The criminal group specialises in smuggling compressed cannabis through the water ways into the country and use yellow commercial bus in inter supply to dealers within Lagos.
“They also used ladies who pretend to be legitimate traders conveying their wares to preferred destinations,” he said.
The statement quoted the NDLEA Chairman, Mr Muhammad Abdallah, as describing the seizures as a sweet victory against the activities of drug trafficking syndicates working at Seme border.
“I am very pleased with the latest seizure by Seme border command.
“The illicit activities of the criminal group has been closely monitored by undercover officers until it was expedient to intercept the drugs.
“This is a sweet victory for the agency and a demonstration of our capacity to dislodge drug trafficking groups in the country.
“We are taking legal steps to sanction those arrested for smuggling the drugs and also forfeit both the warehouse and vehicles used in conveying the drugs.
“These are essential elements in ensuring absolute dismantling of drug trafficking cartels.
“Let me warn that the entire border and water ways are under our watch to uncover drug smuggling and prosecute offenders in accordance with the NDLEA Act,” Abdallah said.
The NDLEA boss urged security agencies to collaborate towards a common goal of enhancing national security.
He also called on the public to report suspected drug activities in their neighbourhood to the agency for prompt action.
“All the suspects will soon be charged to court,” he said.
