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 24 parcels hidden in five bags was uncovered during an intelligence-driven operation conducted by Apapa Customs officers. The discovery led to the detention of the vessel pending further investigation.
This was disclosed by Customs Public Relations Officer, CSC Isah Suleiman, in a statement on Saturday.
Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, Customs Area Controller, said the successful operation was the result of enhanced intelligence-sharing and operational synergy between the NCS and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
He revealed that intelligence reports indicated the ship had previously called at Brazil, Honduras, Guatemala, and other narcotics-flagged ports, prompting heightened scrutiny upon arrival in Nigeria.
“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,” Oshoba stated.
He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to a drug-free port environment, stressing that with the approaching festive season, Apapa Customs will intensify checks to prevent any threats to national security. He added that all consignments exiting the port will undergo thorough examination.
During a brief ceremony, the seized cocaine was formally handed over to the NDLEA, represented by CN Haliru Umar of the Apapa Strategic Command.
The operation underscored renewed vigilance at Nigeria’s seaports and the strengthening of inter-agency collaboration aimed at curbing illicit drug trafficking through the nation’s maritime borders.
