The Tin Can Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reported seizures of two containers of unwholesome importations comprising 01x40ft container of regulated unregistered pharmaceutical products and another 01x40ft container of illicit psychotropic substances worth N4, 180,339,348.00 (Four Billion, One Hundred and Eighty Million, Three Hundred and Thirty Nine Thousand, Three Hundred and Forty Eight Thousand Naira only).
The Comptroller General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, announced this in a press conference on Friday expressing fear that these drugs are used as stimulants by criminals, further fueling societal unrest and instability.
He also pointed out that the proceeds from the illicit drug trade are often used to finance disruptions by non-state actors, posing a significant threat to our national security and economic stability.
“Three plastic drums concealing several packets of Cannabis Indica, 46 bags containing 2,144 packets of Cannabis Indica all weighing 1,072kilogrammes (kg) were seized from 01x40ft Container No. GAOU 669921/5 imported from Canada with an approximate street value of N3, 216,000,000.00 (Three Billion, Two Hundred and Sixteen Million Naira Only).
“877 cartons of Barcadin cough syrup with codeine; 200 bottles of 100ml per carton and 82 cartons of Really Extra Diclofenac Sodium 50mg tablets; 600 packs per carton imported from India was seized.
“The approximate street value of the cough syrup is N964, 339,348.00 (Nine Hundred and Sixty Four Million, Three Hundred and Thirty Nine Thousand, and Three Hundred and Forty Eight Naira Only),” Adeniyi detailed.
The entire seizures totaling N4, 180,339,348.00 (Four Billion, One Hundred and Eighty Million, Three Hundred and Thirty Nine Thousand, Three Hundred and Forty Eight Thousand Naira only), the CGC said highlighted a troubling trend and the evolving tactics of criminality and insecurity in our country.
However, he said it also is evident of the NCS resolve to remain vigilant and showcase “our ability to intercept and disrupt the activities of those who seek to harm our nation.”
He pledged that the NCS will continue to work closely with relevant national and international agencies to conduct operations that lead to the interception of illegal goods and the disruption of criminal networks.
Adeniyi urged all patriotic Nigerians to continue their legitimate business activities, assuring that the NCS is actively working with stakeholders to ease the challenges faced by businesses and the general public.
He noted that the recent seizures of these unregistered drugs revealed the persistent challenges posed by sophisticated smuggling networks, adding that investigations were currently ongoing, and all the perpetrators would be made to serve the full wrath of the law.
“Let this seizure serve as a warning to those who engage in illicit activities that the NCS remains vigilant and dedicated to protecting our society,” the Comptroller General warned.
He reiterated that the NCS is more than ever committed to ensuring that the benefits of a stable and prosperous economy are enjoyed by all Nigerians.