The Western Marine Command, Nigeria Customs Service, has intercepted 53 sacks of substances suspected to be cannabis sativa, containing 3,793 loaves and weighing 1,958 kilograms in Lagos.

The command’s customs area controller, Compt. Paul Bamisaiye, made this known during a news conference on Thursday.

Mr Bamisaiye explained that the seizure took place on Friday along the waterways near Bar Beach Outstation through the relentless efforts and commitment of their dedicated officers.

The area commander noted that the estimated Duty Paid Value (DPV) of the illegal consignment stood at N398.27 million, including applicable taxes.

According to him, the figure underscores the magnitude of the threat posed by drug smuggling to society, especially to the future of the youth.

Mr Bamisaiye thanked the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adeniyi, who had been instrumental in supporting the fight against smuggling operations by providing critical resources and equipment to the Western Marine Command.

“This support has empowered the Command to achieve remarkable successes in ensuring that smugglers have no safe haven on our waterways, thereby creating a secure and thriving environment for legitimate trade.

“As a command, we remain resolute in our mission to safeguard our waterways from the infiltration of harmful substances. Drug smuggling not only fuels crime but also destroys lives and communities.

“I strongly urge members of the public to desist from encouraging the trafficking and consumption of these illicit substances, as they are contributing to the degradation of our youths and the wider society.

“In line with established procedures, the seized items will be handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation and prosecution,” he said.

Mr Bamisaiye expressed the command’s desire to continue to collaborate with relevant agencies to ensure that justice is served and that the perpetrators of such crimes are brought to book.

He commended officers of the command for their vigilance and dedication, urging them to continue to work together in the spirit of national service and commitment to a safer society in the country.

(NAN)