By BANNERNEWS Reporter, Lagos
In a major anti-smuggling operation, the TinCan Island Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted a massive consignment of cannabis valued at N18.96 billion at the Lagos Port, i
Customs Area Controller, Frank Onyeka, disclosed this on Thursday during a press briefing at the command.
He described the seizure as a product of intelligence-driven collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
Onyeka said the container, marked HAMU 429961, originated from Canada and was declared to contain used vehicles.
However, a 100 per cent physical examination triggered by intelligence alerts uncovered concealed illicit substances.
He explained that the drugs, including 185 jumbo bags of cannabis, locally known as “tiga”, were hidden inside two vehicles: a used 2010 Toyota Camry and a 2023 Chevrolet.
Further checks, he said, revealed 9,450 packages of the substance weighing a total of 4,729 kilograms.
“The estimated street value of the seizure is N18.96 billion, highlighting both the scale of the criminal attempt and the effectiveness of our enforcement strategy,” Onyeka stated.
He added that the consignment has been handed over to the NDLEA for investigation and prosecution in line with its mandate.
The Customs boss noted that the operation underscores strengthened synergy between the NCS and NDLEA, following a bilateral agreement signed on April 27, 2026, to deepen intelligence sharing and joint enforcement.
He said the pact also provides for a standing inter-agency committee to be domiciled at the NDLEA headquarters in Abuja to ensure seamless coordination.
Onyeka commended the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, for enhancing operational capacity and promoting inter-agency collaboration.
Reaffirming the command’s resolve, he warned that there would be no safe haven for smugglers undermining the nation’s economy and security.
He also lauded port operators, security agencies and the media for their support in driving compliance and public awareness.
The NCS reiterated its commitment to intelligence-led operations to protect public health, safeguard the economy and strengthen national security.
