The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) BEECROFT on Thursday handed over 45 bags of substance suspected to be Indian hemp weighing 1,575 kg to the Nigerian Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

The Commander of the ship, Commodore Paul Nimmyel during the handing over at Apapa, said that the items were seized near Ilesha Beach.

Mr Nimmyel was represented by the base Executive Officer, Capt. Idongesit Udoessien.

The commander said that the feat was part of the Nigerian Navy’s efforts to continue to make significant strides in curbing illicit drug trafficking and enhancing security of the maritime area.

He said, “On July 4, the base quick response team, acting on credible intelligence, intercepted two wooden boats suspected to be transporting illegal substances around Takwa Bay and Ilesha Beach Axis. This operation resulted in the seizure of 45 bags of substance suspected to be cannabis sativa; however, the suspects fled upon sighting our patrol team.”

The commander said that the successful interception was part of the broader series of sustained efforts by the Nigerian Navy under the leadership of Vice Adm. Emmanuel Ogalla.

He stated, “The Nigerian Navy remains actively engaged in supporting internal security operations and collaborating with sister agencies to protect lives and property in Nigeria’s maritime domain. As part of ongoing operations in Lagos and beyond, the Nigerian Navy continues to intensify surveillance, patrols, and intelligence driven missions and denies criminals the freedom to operate within our waterways.’’.

Mr Nimmyel commended the vigilance and professionalism of the personnel and urged citizens to support their efforts by providing timely and credible information that would aid in enhancing security across the states and nation.

Deputy Commander, NDLEA Marine Command, Emmanuel Morrison, said that the seized goods would be taken to the central exhibit storehouse and destroyed after getting orders to do so.

Mr Morrison appreciated the Nigerian Navy’s efforts in upholding the fight against illegal activities particularly in Nigeria waterways.

(NAN)