Customs Seizes N12.7bn Expired Drugs, 1.8 Tonnes Cannabis

The Nigeria Customs Service, specifically the Apapa Area Command, intercepted a large consignment of expired pharmaceutical products valued at N12.7 billion and 1.8 tonnes of cannabis sativa in Lagos. The operation was conducted based on credible intelligence and involved collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and other regulatory bodies.

Chief Superintendent of Customs Isah Sulaiman explained that the seizure was achieved through a carefully planned operation that utilized a risk profiling system. The Customs Command intercepted a 40-foot container, CAAU7569127, which contained a significant quantity of cannabis sativa, known as Canadian Loud.

A total of 3,639 sachets weighing 500 grams each were recovered, bringing the total estimated weight of the cannabis to approximately 1,819 kilograms. Additionally, two 40-foot containers filled with expired pharmaceutical products were intercepted, with a combined duty-paid value of N12,784,479,341.72.

Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba issued a strong warning against smuggling activities, urging individuals to desist from such crimes.