Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Tincan Island Port Command in Lagos, have intercepted a large quantity of cannabis hidden inside mattresses during a routine search of import containers.

The NDLEA commander, Mitchell Ofoyeju, disclosed in Lagos on Sunday that the illicit consignment was a product of a search operation on containers from Montreal, Canada.

He disclosed that 63.75 kilogrammes of cannabis indica were recovered during the operation.

Mr Ofoyeju explained that the incessant interception of cannabis indica was due to the growing appetite of drug users for Canadian-grown cannabis over locally produced cannabis.

“We have observed a preference for imported cannabis over locally grown ones by drug users.

“The price of the imported drugs is also far higher, and that is the reason drug traffickers are desperate to smuggle the drugs into the country,” Mr Ofoyeju said.

The commander said the seizure was made possible through diligent surveillance and teamwork.

“As part of efforts to prevent the use of the Tincan Island Port Strategic Command in illicit drug trafficking, our quest for drug interception was aptly rewarded when we uncovered 128 parcels of dried weeds inside a Montreal container.

“Three parcels of the drug were hidden in the trunk of a Toyota Venza, while 125 parcels were cleverly tucked away in two big mattresses. Officers had to cut open the mattresses to recover the hidden drugs.

“In all, the operation yielded 128 parcels of cannabis with a combined weight of 63.75 kilograms. Save for our vigilance, the drugs would have caused devastating damage to the nation,” Mr Ofoyeju said.

The commander said reasons for the growing preference for Canadian-grown cannabis included a penchant for exotic products, higher potency and the legalisation of the recreational use of cannabis in Canada.

Mr Ofoyeju said cannabis was the most abused drug in the country, with unprecedented socioeconomic, cultural and health consequences.

He reiterated that the command was working assiduously to strengthen inspection mechanisms at the seaport and international collaboration.

The agency also confirmed that the suspected receiver of the shipment, Bamidele Joseph, was in custody and was being questioned as part of an ongoing investigation.

He said the success of the operation underscored the commitment of the NDLEA officers towards combating drug trafficking and ensuring the safety of the public.

The commander, therefore, pledged to remain vigilant in eradicating the illicit flow of narcotics in the country.

“As investigations continue, the command is working assiduously to identify all parties involved in the importation of illicit drugs into the country.

“All those found guilty shall be dealt with according to the NDLEA Act. This will further discourage members of the public from indulging in drug trafficking,” Mr Ofoyeju stated.

(NAN)