…Unveils 13 New Patrol Vehicles
Author: Abass Quadri.
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun I Area Command, has handed over a major drug seizure to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), underscoring ongoing interagency collaboration in the fight against drug trafficking.
Speaking during a press briefing at the Command’s headquarters in Idiroko on Thursday, 3 July 2025, the Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Godwin Otunla, revealed that the consignment of cannabis, concealed in a Mercedes Benz truck, was intercepted following credible intelligence.
“Upon initial examination, the truck was suspected to be conveying prohibited items. Further inspection revealed several parcels of cannabis sativa, commonly known as marijuana, cleverly hidden in fabricated compartments—also known as a false bottom,” he said.
He added that a thorough search, conducted under Section 226 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, uncovered 2,693 parcels of the illicit substance, weighing a total of 1,450kg, with a duty-paid value of ₦172,920,000. One suspect was arrested in connection with the seizure.
The seized consignment and the suspect were formally handed over to the Commander of the NDLEA Idiroko Special Command, Williams Ekundayo.
Ekundayo commended Customs for the successful operation. “This is a commendable seizure that will go a long way in protecting our youths from the devastating effects of drug abuse,” he remarked.
While praising the strategic leadership of the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, Comptroller Otunla congratulated him on his recent election as Chairperson of the World Customs Organisation (WCO) Council.
“This prestigious global recognition reflects the CGC’s visionary leadership and commitment to service reform and modernisation,” he said.
“I am also pleased to announce that the Command has just taken delivery of 13 operational vehicles allocated by the CGC to enhance our enforcement capabilities. We are deeply grateful to him and the entire management team for their continued support,” he added.
