Customs Intercepts 142 Parcels Of Illicit Drugs Worth N290m

The Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted 142 parcels of illicit drugs popularly known as Canadian Loud, imported into the country from Canada

The contraband with an estimated street value of N290million, was handed over to the seized drugs to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

Speaking to Journalists, the Customs Area Controller, Compt. Effiong Harrison said the arrest was made on Tuesday, and the suspect’s travel documents revealed that he had arrived from Canada via Ethiopia.

The Customs boss emphasised the severe threat these hard drugs posed to Nigeria’s youth, economy and national security.

Compt. Harrison said, “We want to hand over 142 parcels of Canadian Loud, which is one of the illicit drugs that we do not want to enter our country.”

“We do not want these kinds of things to enter our society because they will affect our younger ones. They will impact negatively on our economy and also become a security risk,” he warned.
He further stressed the agency’s unwavering commitment to combating drug trafficking and issued a stern warning to those involved in such activities.

“We are very resolute. We are very determined that these things shall not pass here. Anything that is not in line with our laws is not acceptable here,” he declared.

Compt. Harrison, who further cautioned individuals against collaborating with drug traffickers, said the seized drugs, suspect, and travel documents were handed over to the NDLEA for further investigations and necessary legal action.

“We are watching thoroughly. We are watching to see. We are waiting to know where you are operating from. And we will not relent to ensure that we will come after you.”

Also speaking, the Commander of Narcotics and Head of Operations, NDLEA, MMIA, Muhammad-Muktar Ahmad, expressed gratitude to the Customs Comptroller and his team for the “marvellous seizure.”

“This is a typical display of synergy existing between agencies here at Murtala Muhammad International Airport.”

Tukur assured the Customs Service that the NDLEA would investigate and unravel each and every individual that is responsible for the import.

He acknowledged the ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking at the airport, stating, “We know it has been happening, and we have been unravelling syndicates responsible for drug trafficking at this airport. By the special grace of God, whatever the outcome is, you will be informed.”

Expressing his satisfaction with the seizure, Muhammad-Muktar said, “We are extremely happy. His whole aim has been defeated now. He aimed to bring it in and cause havoc in this country. Unfortunately, it has been intercepted right here.”

He issued a strong warning to travellers attempting to smuggle drugs through the airport. “It’s a clear message that this place is a no-go area. Whatever you plan to do negatively here will be intercepted. We have intercepted them before, and we will continue to do so. So, this place is a no-go area,” he stated