The Forward Operating Base (FOB) of the Nigerian Navy in Badagry, Lagos, on Thursday intercepted nine and half sacks of India hemp worth N15.2 million at Moba community.

The Base Intelligent Officer, Lt. EU Okorie representing the Commanding Officer, Navy Captain Adams-Aliu, said the items were seized around 3:30 p.m., at Moba community in Badagry.

Mr Okorie said the navy operatives acted after receiving an intelligence tip-off about the activities of some suspected smugglers within its area of operations.

“You will recall that on Nov.9, 2023, the Flag Officer Commanding, Western Navy Command Operations, Rear Adm. Mustapha Hassan, flagged off an operation code named ‘Water Guard’ in line with the Chief of Naval Staff’s strategic directives.

“On Thursday, Nov. 23, we got an intelligence tip-off concerning smuggling items within our area of operations.

“The Intelligence indicated that products suspected to be cannabis sativa were kept in a place called Moba community in Badagry.

“The Base Quick Response Team mobilised and proceeded to the place, condone and search operation was conducted at the area.

“At the end of the operation, nine and half sacks of product suspected to be Indian hemp (cannabis sativa) valued N15,200,000 were discovered at various points,” he said.

Mr Okorie said the items would be handed over to the appropriate agency for prosecution.

The base, on Oct. 4, handed over 27 sacks of Indian hemp worth N35 million to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

On Nov. 19, the Base also seized 50 sacks of suspected Indian hemp valued at N70 million at Gbethrome community in Badagry and handed it over to the NDLEA on Nov. 20.

(NAN)