Nigeria Customs Service Intercepts N172.9 Million Worth of Cannabis Sativa in Ogun

By Lod Onyeji

The Nigeria Customs Service, Ogun 1 Area Command, has made a significant seizure of 2,693 parcels of cannabis sativa, weighing approximately 1,450 kilograms, with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N172,920,000. The illicit substance was concealed in a Mercedes Benz truck with registration number EPE-595-LA, intercepted on June 29, 2025, at about 0005 hours, during an intelligence-driven operation.

*The Operation*

The operatives of the command meticulously deployed strategies tailored to counter emerging smuggling trends, achieving this feat within a matter of days. Upon initial examination, the truck was suspected to be conveying prohibited items. Further inspection revealed that several parcels of cannabis sativa had been ingeniously concealed within fabricated compartments of the truck.

*Handing Over the Seized Consignment*

The Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Godwin Otunla, handed over the seized cannabis and the suspect, William Asare, a 39-year-old Nigerian resident of Ibadan, Oyo State, to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation and necessary action. Otunla reaffirmed the Command's commitment to intensifying efforts against smuggling and cross-border crimes.

*Commitment to Anti-Smuggling Efforts*

The successful interception of this large quantity of illicit drugs is a significant step in preventing the circulation of these harmful substances in communities, especially among youth, and safeguarding national security. The Command has recorded remarkable successes in anti-smuggling operations and revenue generation, demonstrating its unwavering resolve to combat smuggling activities within Ogun State.

*Boost to Operational Capacity*

The Command has taken delivery of 13 operational vehicles, generously allocated by the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, to boost their operational capacity. Otunla congratulated the CGC on his well-deserved election as the Chairperson of the World Customs Organization (WCO) Council, comprising 186 member countries.