Nigeria Customs Seizes N3.951bn Worth of Illicit Goods, Arrest Three Suspects

The Nigeria Customs Service seized N3.951 billion worth of illicit goods in a significant operation, demonstrating their commitment to public safety. During the formal handover of the seized items in Lagos, Comptroller of the Federal Operations Unit, Gambo Aliyu, emphasized the dangers posed by the illegal movement of psychotropic substances and high-grade mercury.

He highlighted how such substances fuel addiction, criminality, violence, and other social problems. Aliyu stressed the importance of collaboration between law enforcement agencies in combating smuggling and transborder crime.

The seized items included 5,669 parcels and 19 sacks of synthetic cannabis weighing 3,116.9 kilograms, along with various amounts of other controlled substances. These included 31.5 packs and 3.45 kilograms of ground cannabis, 2 packs of granulated cannabis weighing 1 kilogram, and 11 small packs of granulated cannabis weighing 0.35 kilograms.

Additionally, 49 wraps of Russian Cream cigars and 1 wrap of crystal methamphetamine were seized. Other items included 1,754 packs and 6,948 sachets of Tramadol tablets, 1,200 Hypnox tablets, and 97 bottles of codeine syrup.

Aliyu also reported the interception of four high-grade mercury cylinders, each weighing 34.5 kilograms. These chemicals are significant due to their environmental hazards and are regulated under the Minamata Convention. The seized mercury will be handed over to the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency for further investigation and appropriate action.

Aliyu affirmed the Customs Service's commitment to sharing intelligence and supporting the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency's investigations in line with legal procedures.