Seme Customs seize 553 parcels of Indian Hemp worth N10m, arrest 4 suspects
The Seme Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted 553 parcels of cannabis sativa popularly known as Indian Hemp worth N10 million, while four suspects were arrested in connection with the seizure.
Customs Area Controller of Seme Customs, Comptroller Dera Nnadi disclosed this at the weekend in a statement.
The anti-smuggling czar said that “On the 21 April 2023 at about 0403 hours, officers of Seme Command of Nigeria Customs Service while on routine patrol along the Abidjan – Lagos Corridor intercepted a Ford Bus with registration number EPE 622 YC at Gbatrome, Badagry.
“Upon search of the bus, seven large sacks containing five hundred and fifty-three (553) parcels of Cannabis Sativa, also known as Indian Hemp, were discovered. Four male occupants of the vehicle comprising of two civilians and two members of one of the sister security agencies conveying the contraband items were arrested.“The contraband narcotics valued at about Ten (10) million Naira and the means of conveyance were taken to the station at Seme and detained pending further investigations.
“Also taken to the station are the four male suspects who have volunteered statements. However, the two members of one of the sister security agency were handed over to their agency for further necessary action. Preliminary investigation following the questioning of the suspects revealed that the Indian hemp was destined for Kaduna State”
Comptroller Dera Nnadi condemned the nefarious means of earning a living by some members of the society who have no consideration for the damaging effects of hard drugs which contribute to crime in the country.
He enjoined members of the society who traverse the Seme Corridor to take advantage of the trade facilitation effort of the Nigeria Customs Service and engage in legitimate business.The Customs Area Controller charged all stakeholders and officers and men of Nigeria Customs Service and sister border agencies along the corridor to remain vigilant and alert during the sallah celebration as smugglers may wish to take advantage the public holidays to engage in their reprehensible acts.
He also directed them to ensure that all facilities and critical government infrastructures in their area of responsibilities are protected during this period as always.