Customs seizes N18.96bn cannabis hidden in imported vehicles
The TinCan Island Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted a large consignment of illicit drugs valued at N18.96 billion at Lagos Port , in a major crackdown on smuggling activities. The Customs Area Controller of the Command, Frank Onyeka, disclosed this during a press briefing held on Thursday at TinCan Command, noting […]
The TinCan Island Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted a large consignment of illicit drugs valued at N18.96 billion at Lagos Port , in a major crackdown on smuggling activities.
The Customs Area Controller of the Command, Frank Onyeka, disclosed this during a press briefing held on Thursday at TinCan Command, noting that the seizure was made through a joint intelligence-driven operation involving personnel of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
According to Onyeka, the container, identified as HAMU 429961, originated from Canada and was declared to contain used vehicles. However, a 100 percent physical examination conducted after intelligence alerts led to the discovery of concealed illicit substances.
He explained that the drugs, consisting of 185 jumbo bags of cannabis, commonly referred to as “tiga”—were hidden inside two vehicles: a used 2010 Toyota Camry and a 2023 Chevrolet.
He revealed that further inspection revealed that the seizure comprised 9,450 packages with a total weight of 4,729 kilograms.
“The estimated street value of the seized drugs is N18.96 billion, underscoring the scale of the criminal attempt and the effectiveness of our enforcement strategies,” Onyeka said.
Speaking further, Onyeka said that the seized items have been formally handed over to the NDLEA for further investigation and prosecution in line with its statutory responsibilities.
The Customs chief noted that the operation reflects strengthened collaboration between the NCS and NDLEA, following a recent agreement signed on April 27, 2026, to enhance intelligence sharing, joint operations, and coordinated enforcement efforts.
“The agreement also provides for the establishment of a standing inter-agency committee to be based at the NDLEA headquarters in Abuja to ensure seamless cooperation between both agencies,” he added.
Onyeka commended the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, for his leadership and support in boosting operational capacity and inter-agency synergy.
Reaffirming the Command’s commitment to combating smuggling and illicit trade, Onyeka warned that there would be no safe haven for criminals seeking to undermine Nigeria’s economy and security.
He also appreciated stakeholders, including port operators, security agencies, and the media, for their continued support in promoting compliance and enhancing public awareness.
The NCS reiterated its resolve to deploy intelligence-driven strategies and robust enforcement measures to safeguard public health, protect the economy, and strengthen national security.