Apapa Strikes Again: Customs, NDLEA intercept 1.1 tonnes of Canadian Loud hidden in imported vehicles

Maureen Aguta

In another major blow to international drug cartels, operatives of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have intercepted 1,187 kilogrammes of Canadian Loud, an expensive variant of cannabis, at the Apapa Port in Lagos.

The interception comes barely five days after both agencies uncovered 25.5kg of cocaine aboard a Brazilian-flagged vessel—underscoring what authorities describe as an intensified offensive against narcotics trafficking through Nigeria’s busiest seaport.

Acting on credible intelligence from the NDLEA, a joint examination team uncovered 2,374 sachets of the premium-grade cannabis carefully concealed in 55 bags hidden inside a 1x20ft container (No. FCIU 6369526) which was loaded with two imported vehicles. Each sachet was reportedly packed in 500-gram portions.

The illicit cargo has since been handed over to the NDLEA for further investigation.

Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, the Customs Area Controller of Apapa Command, hailed the “solid synergy” between both agencies, stressing that the sustained collaboration is frustrating traffickers who attempt to exploit the port.

“Few days ago, I said no consignment would leave this port without due checks,” Oshoba stated. “Our partnership ensures we stay ahead of criminal elements. Regardless of trade volumes, we will never compromise national security for commercial activities.”

He issued a stern warning to importers, exporters, freight forwarders and customs agents, particularly during the high-traffic Yuletide season, insisting the Command remains unwavering.

“Anyone attempting to undermine our resolve will face the full wrath of the law. Investigations are ongoing, and the perpetrators will be brought to justice,” he said.