From Laide Raheem, Abeokuta
Operatives of the Ogun 1 Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service have intercepted Cannabis Sativa and Tramadol worth N117,587,405 at border areas across the state.
The Area Controller in charge of Ogun 1 Area Command, James Ojo, stated this while briefing journalists on the intercepted substances and handing over of the contraband goods to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) on Friday, in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The seized substances included 5,256 coconut size wraps of Cannabis Sativa valued at N46,981,742,46; book size wraps of Cannabis Sativa valued at N411,179; 1,202 bread size wraps of the same substance valued at N10,744,302; and 403 sacks of the substance valued at N16, 010, 182.
According to Ojo, the 403 sacks and 6,504 parcels of Cannabis Sativa and 362 packs Tramaking Tablets of 225mg each, were seized at the Agbawo/Igankoto area of Yewa North Local Government Area, and the Imeko Afon axis, among others.
“From January to 21 November, 2024, through credible intelligence and strategic operations, the operatives of the Ogun I Command intercepted and seized substantial quantities of cannabis sativa and Tramking tablets, another brand of tramadol.
“The seizures consist of 403 sacks and 6,504 parcels, weighing 7,217.7 kg, and 362 packs of Tramaking tablets of 225mg each, with a total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N117,587,405.00.
“The height of illicit drug smuggling in recent times is alarming and worrisome. For instance, between 13 October 2024 and 12 November 2024 alone, our operatives intercepted a total of 1,373 parcels of cannabis sativa, weighing 1,337 kg, and 362 packs of Tramaking tablets of 225mg each, abandoned at various locations, including the Abeokuta axis, the Agbawo/Igankoto area of Yewa North Local Government Area, and the Imeko Afon axis, among others”, he stated.
Ojo warned people engaging in the nefarious trade of drug trafficking and other smuggling activities to desist.
Receiving the exhibits, Olusegun Adeyeye, Commander, NDLEA, Idiroko Special Command, applauded the Customs Area command for its doggedness, efforts and contributions in the fight against illicit drugs.