In its anti-smuggling operations, the Oyo/Osun Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service recorded breakthrough as it intercepted and seized 2,280 wraps of cannabis sativa.
The intercepted illicit drug weighed 1,824 kilogrammes when measured on a scale, according to the area command’s Public Relations Officer, Kayode Wey, a Superintendent of Customs.
Saturday Tribune learnt that the illicit drug was cunningly concealed under more than 200 sacks of sawdust that were being transported in a six-tyre DAF truck along the Ilero axis in Oke Ogun area of Oyo State.
The operation that led to the interception and seizure was reportedly carried out on August 14 at about 12:15 pm.
Underscoring the Command’s unwavering commitment to protecting public health and safety, the Customs Area Controller in charge of the command, Dr Ben Oramalugo, said that the seizure forms part of a broader strategy to combat the smuggling of illegal and harmful substances into the country.
The Comptroller pointed out that the seizure of the 2,280 wraps of cannabis sativa is a testament to the vigilance, dedication, and professionalism of Command officers.
“The smugglers’ attempt to hide this illegal substance under more than 200 sacks of sawdust was a calculated effort to evade detection, but our team’s intelligence and thorough inspection have once again ensured that this harmful drug does not reach our communities.”
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Dr Oramalugo disclosed that the interception was carried out based on intelligence by one of the various Command’s anti-smuggling units.
He said: “Upon identification of the truck where it was packed, the six-tyre DAF truck was thoroughly inspected, leading to the discovery and confirmation of the cannabis sativa which was strategically hidden under the sawdust sacks to avoid detection.”
Dr Oramalugo explained further that the seizure highlighted the lengths which smugglers would go to in distributing illegal drugs, but emphasised the commitment of the command’s operating officers to thwart such efforts.
He spoke on the negative impact of cannabis sativa on public health, especially among youths, which he said could not be overstated, stating that the Command is determined to prevent such substances from infiltrating Nigerian society.
He made it known that the seized cannabis sativa would be handed over to the state command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation and disposal, according to the law, after its approval by the Customs Service headquarters.
He appealed to members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to drug trafficking or smuggling to the nearest Customs office or other law enforcement agencies.
