January 04, (THEWILL) – The Tincan Special Area Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), on Thursday, said it intercepted 876.453 kilograms of various illicit drugs and controlled substances in 2023.
A statement by the Area Commander, Mohammed Abubakar, said the Command intercepted cocaine worth 24kg, Cannabis – 852.45KG, and Tramadol – 0.003KG, all totalling 876.453KG.
According to Abubakar, a total of 15 individuals were arrested and prosecuted during the period, out of which 10 were convicted.
He added that the feat was achieved through relentless efforts and meticulous investigation, which led to the dismantling of several drug trafficking networks and the subsequent prosecution of individuals involved.
“The Tincan Special Area Command has been at the forefront of strategic operations in the area, targeting illicit drug smuggling activities and apprehending those responsible.
“In recent months, the efforts have culminated in multiple successful seizures and arrests, emphasising the agency’s commitment to eradicating drug-related crimes within our society.
“In one operation carried out at the Tincan port, a notable seizure of illicit drugs (Cannabis Indica also called Colorado) totalling 161.5kg was made, along with a sum of $22,900 offered as bribe to officers.
“The intercepted drugs were concealed within cargo shipments of used vehicles from Montreal Canada, indicating the ingenuity of the involved drug traffickers,” he said.
Abubakar said that several investigations were conducted in collaboration with national and international law enforcement agencies, leading to the identification and apprehension of some of the key players in these drug networks.
He also urged all licensed Customs clearing agents to stop the practice of authorising third-party individuals to clear cargo under their company stamp.
“This may become a real problem when illicit drugs are discovered and the company cannot provide any tangible information or whereabouts of the owners of the cargo.
“Clearing agents have the responsibility to not only adhere to laws but to cooperate with law enforcement agents undertaking an investigation.
“The NDLEA, Tincan Special Area Command, sends a strong message to all those involved in drug trafficking and other illicit activities, we intend to use every available resource to bring them to justice and put an end to their illegal operations,” he said.
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