Customs, NDLEA seize N18.9b illicit drugs at Tin Can Port

Several bags of illicit drugs, seized by the Nigeria Customs Service, Tin Can Island Port Command, Lagos, have been handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation.

The Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Frank Onyeka said the  illicit drugs, valued at ₦18.9 billion, were intercepted at Tin Can Island Port in a joint operation with the NDLEA.

Briefing the media at the handing over within the port on Thursday, April 30, 2026, Comptroller Frank Onyeka said the operation was carried out based on credible intelligence and strengthened inter-agency collaboration between the NCS and NDLEA.

Onyeka noted that his officers conducted a 100 per cent physical examination of a container marked HAMU429966/1, which had been flagged for detailed inspection.

He explained that the container originated from Canada and was falsely declared to contain used vehicles but upon thorough examination, the container was found to contain a large quantity of Cannabis Indica concealed within.

The Controller added that the illicit consignment comprised 185 jumbo bags of Cannabis Indica hidden alongside a used 2010 Toyota Camry and a used 2023 Chevrolet Colorado.

Further details revealed that the drugs were made up of 9,458 packages with a total weight of 4,729 kilograms.

Onyeka described the interception as a significant disruption to drug trafficking networks, noting that the successful operation underscored the vigilance, professionalism and dedication of officers, as well as the effectiveness of inter-agency synergy.

The controller said the seizure came shortly after a landmark agreement between the NCS and NDLEA aimed at strengthening collaboration against drug trafficking and organised crime.

He explained that the agreement provides for structured intelligence sharing, regular engagements and coordinated operational strategies between both agencies.

According to him, a standing inter-agency committee has been established, with its headquarters located at the NDLEA Headquarters in Abuja.

He commended the Comptroller-General of Customs for his leadership and also appreciated the NDLEA and other stakeholders, including port operators and the media, for their support.

The controller reaffirmed the command’s commitment to intensifying enforcement operations and warned smugglers that there would be no safe haven for illegal activities, while reiterating the NCS resolve to safeguard the nation’s economy and public health.