The Tin-Can Island Customs Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) on Thursday said it intercepted a massive haul of illicit drugs valued at N18.96 billion, uncovering thousands of packages of cannabis concealed inside imported vehicles from Canada.

The seizure, carried out by officers of the command under the leadership of the Customs Area Controller, Frank Onyeka, followed what officials described as a coordinated, intelligence-driven operation in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

Addressing journalists during the handover of the seized items, Onyeka disclosed that the container, marked HAMU 429961 and shipped from Canada, was falsely declared as containing only used vehicles.

“Acting on credible intelligence, our officers conducted a 100 per cent physical examination of the container and discovered 185 jumbo bags of cannabis concealed within two imported vehicles,” he said.

He explained that the illicit drugs were hidden inside a used 2010 Toyota Camry and a 2023 Chevrolet vehicle in a deliberate attempt to evade detection.

“Further examination revealed a total of 9,450 packages of cannabis with a combined weight of 4,729 kilograms and an estimated street value of N18.96 billion,” Onyeka added.

The Customs boss described the seizure as a major breakthrough, noting that it underscores the vigilance, professionalism, and dedication of officers, as well as the growing effectiveness of inter-agency collaboration.

“This significant seizure demonstrates the strength of our intelligence-driven operations and the synergy between the Nigeria Customs Service and sister agencies, particularly the NDLEA,” he said.

Onyeka noted that the interception comes shortly after a formal agreement between the NCS and NDLEA aimed at strengthening cooperation in tackling drug trafficking and other transnational crimes.

“As part of the agreement signed on 27 April 2026, both agencies are committed to enhanced intelligence sharing, joint operations, and the development of coordinated operational guidelines,” he stated.

He added that a standing inter-agency committee has been established, with its headquarters located at the NDLEA headquarters in Abuja, to ensure seamless collaboration.

Formally handing over the seized drugs to the NDLEA for further investigation and prosecution, Onyeka reaffirmed the commitment of the Customs Service to safeguarding national security and public health.

“Today, we hand over these illicit drugs to the NDLEA in line with their statutory mandate for further investigation and prosecution,” he said.

He also issued a stern warning to smugglers and criminal networks, stressing that there would be no hiding place for those engaged in illegal activities.

“Let me send a clear message to all smugglers and criminal elements: the Nigeria Customs Service, in collaboration with its partners, is fully prepared to detect, intercept, and prosecute all forms of illicit trade. There will be no safe haven for saboteurs,” Onyeka warned.

The Customs Area Controller expressed appreciation to the Comptroller-General of Customs for his leadership and support, as well as to the NDLEA and other stakeholders for their continued cooperation.

He further commended the role of the media in promoting public awareness and called for sustained collaboration among all stakeholders to combat smuggling and illicit drug trafficking.

“The command remains resolute in deploying intelligence-driven strategies and robust enforcement measures to secure our ports and borders,” he said.

The latest seizure adds to a growing list of high-profile interceptions by security agencies, highlighting intensified efforts to curb the influx of illicit drugs into the country. (Nigerian Tribune)