Lagos: Customs, NDLEA intercept 30 slabs of cocaine at Apapa port

Officers of the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, Apapa Area Command, working in partnership with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, have intercepted 30 slabs of cocaine aboard the MV Aruna, a Marshall Islands-registered vessel.

The seizure took place on Friday at the Greenview Terminal within Apapa Port, Lagos, highlighting the ongoing efforts of security agencies to prevent illicit substances from entering the country through its busiest seaport.

According to a statement from the Apapa Port Command’s Public Relations Officer, Isah Sulaiman, the cocaine was carefully concealed on the ship, reflecting the sophisticated methods employed by smugglers.

Apapa Area Controller, Emmanuel Oshoba, lauded the officers for their vigilance during the New Year period, describing the operation as a strong message that the command remains committed to combating illegal trade in line with established protocols.

The NDLEA has taken custody of the seized drugs for further investigation and to facilitate the prosecution of those responsible.

This interception represents the third significant drug bust in recent weeks by the joint NCS-NDLEA enforcement team.