Customs Seizes 481 Indian Hemp, Rice Worth N352m On Lagos Waterways
THECONSCIENCE NG reports that The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Western Marine Command, on Tuesday, announced the seizure of 481 loaves of cannabis sativa, 72 bundles of foreign textiles, seven bags of sugar, four locally constructed fibre boats, and five locally constructed wooden boats by its officers on Lagos waterways.
Addressing reporters at the command yesterday, its Area Controller, Patrick Ntadi, disclosed that the seizures had a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of ₦352,952,200.
According to him, the operation was part of the command’s continuous efforts to safeguard the nation’s borders, protect the economy, and uphold the rule of law.
He explained that security lapses can no longer be taken lightly, especially at a time when Nigeria is grappling with multiple security challenges.
He noted that over the past few weeks, the Command’s officers, known for their discipline and dedication, had carried out a series of targeted operations along maritime routes.
These efforts led to the interception of several illegal shipments and smuggled goods, which pose serious threats to the country’s economic stability and social well-being.
Among the seized items were 2,017 bags of foreign parboiled rice, valued at ₦212,995,200; seven sacks of 50kg sugar, valued at ₦672,000; seventy-two rolls of foreign plain textile material, with a DPV of ₦71,280,000; and 481 loaves of cannabis sativa, with a DPV of ₦50,505,000.
In addition, nine boats, comprising both fibre and wooden constructions, were confiscated and valued at ₦17,500,000. Altogether, these seizures amount to a DPV of ₦352,952,200.
Ntadi noted that this marks a significant blow to criminal networks engaged in smuggling and illegal trade, and it demonstrates the Command’s commitment to ensuring that only lawful commerce thrives within the country.
He also highlighted enhanced intelligence gathering, improved synergy with other security agencies such as the Nigerian Navy, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), the Marine Police, and the Nigeria Immigration Service, as well as the deployment of more patrol vessels across the coastlines and inland waterways.
He stressed the importance of staying vigilant and continuously adapting strategies to counter the changing tactics of smugglers and other economic saboteurs.
