Apapa Customs Intercepts 25.5kg Cocaine From Brazilian Vessel, Hands Over Seizure, Detained Ship to NDLEA
The Apapa Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted 25.5 kilograms of cocaine concealed aboard a Brazilian vessel, MV San Anthonio, which berthed at the Lagos Port Complex.
The illicit substance, packaged in 24 parcels and hidden in five bags, was uncovered during an intelligence-driven operation by Apapa Customs officers. The interception led to the detention of the vessel, pending further investigation.
This was disclosed in a statement issued on Saturday by the Customs Public Relations Officer, CSC Isah Suleiman
Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, said the successful operation was a product of strengthened collaboration between the NCS and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
According to Oshoba, intelligence reports revealed that the ship had called at Brazil, Honduras, Guatemala, and other ports flagged for narcotics trafficking, which prompted heightened security checks upon arrival in Nigeria.
“What has happened today is the outcome of profiling and intelligence-led operations by the NCS and NDLEA,” Oshoba said. “This seizure and the detention of the ship should send a strong warning to perpetrators of unlawful trade. No criminal elements can beat the system here.”
He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to preventing illicit activities within the port, adding that the operation reflects the zero-tolerance stance of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.
Oshoba further noted that with the Yuletide season approaching, Apapa Command will intensify security checks to prevent any attempt to undermine national security, stressing that all consignments exiting the port will undergo strict examination.
During a brief ceremony, the seized cocaine was officially handed over to the NDLEA, represented by CN Haliru Umar, Commander of the Apapa Strategic Command.
The operation highlights the renewed vigilance of the NCS and its inter-agency partners in safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime borders from illicit drug trafficking.
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