MASSIVE DRUG BUST: APAPA COMMAND INTERCEPTS 8,287 PARCELS OF CANNABIS IN VEHICLE SHIPMENT

MASSIVE DRUG BUST: APAPA COMMAND INTERCEPTS 8,287 PARCELS OF CANNABIS IN VEHICLE SHIPMENT
By Prince Benson Davies

A major drug haul has been intercepted at Apapa Port after the Nigeria Customs Service, Apapa Area Command, working with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, uncovered a 40-foot container loaded with Cannabis Indica worth over ₦26.5 billion.

The discovery was made on Friday, July 10, 2026, during a targeted examination at the Command’s Enforcement Unit. Customs said the operation was triggered by credible intelligence which pointed to suspicious contents in container number FANU1933352.

On opening the container, officers found three used vehicles declared as part of the consignment. They include a red Nissan Micra 2015 model, a black Toyota Corolla S 2019 model, and a gray Toyota Corolla 2015 model. A detailed search revealed 162 bags of Cannabis Indica neatly concealed within the container.

Officials explained that 4 bags were hidden inside the red Nissan Micra, while the remaining 158 bags were packed on the container floor and in compartments between the vehicles. In total, the bags contained 8,287 parcels, with each parcel weighing 500 grams. This put the entire seizure at 4,143.5 kilograms.

Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, said the interception reflects the Command’s resolve to shut out prohibited goods from the nation’s premier port. He linked the success to the directive of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Dr. Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, for zero tolerance on smuggling, drug trafficking and other forms of illegality.

According to him, the Command will not compromise on enforcement even as it continues to facilitate legitimate trade. He praised officers for their diligence, noting that professionalism during examinations is key to protecting public health and national security.

“The Apapa Command remains committed to ensuring that only lawful cargo passes through this port. We have made it clear that this place is not safe for any prohibited item,” Oshoba stated.

He added that compliant traders should expect continued support through trade facilitation measures introduced by the CGC, while those involved in illicit trade will face the full weight of the law.

The Command has since taken custody of the container in line with the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023. Investigations are ongoing to track and arrest those responsible for the importation.