THE Seme Command of Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted 553 parcels of cannabis sativa worth N10 million.
The Command in a statement by the Customs Area Controller of Seme Customs, Dera Nnadi on Friday, April 22, disclosed that four suspects were arrested in connection with the development.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Nnadi said officers of the Command, while on routine patrol along the Abidjan – Lagos Corridor, at about 4:03 pm on April 21, intercepted a Ford Bus with registration number, EPE 622 YC at Gbatrome, Badagry.
Following a search on the bus, seven large sacks containing 553 parcels of cannabis sativa, also known as Indian hemp, were discovered.
He explained that four male occupants of the vehicle – two civilians and two members of an unnamed security agency – conveying the contraband items were arrested.
According to Nnadi, the contraband narcotics and the vehicles used in conveying them were taken to the station at Seme and detained pending further investigations.
“Also taken to the station are the four male suspects who have volunteered statements.”
Nnadi noted that the two members of the unnamed security agency were handed over to their organisation for further necessary action.
Preliminary investigation following the questioning of the suspects revealed that the Indian hemp was destined for Kaduna State.
Meanwhile, Nnadi condemned the nefarious activities of some members of the society who have no consideration for the damaging effects of hard drugs, which contribute to crime in the country.
He urged members of the society who traversed the Seme corridor to take advantage of the trade facilitation effort of the Nigeria Customs Service and engage in legitimate business.
He also advised all officers and men of the Command and sister border agencies along the corridor to remain vigilant and alert during the Sallah celebration as smugglers may take advantage of the public holidays to engage in snuggling and other criminal activities.
Usman Mustapha is a solution journalist with International Centre for Investigative Reporting. You can easily reach him via: [email protected]. He tweets @UsmanMustapha_M