NDLEA Tin Can Port Issues Scorecard for 2023, Records 876.453Kg Seizure of Cocain, Tramadol, Other Illicit Drugs

By DAPO OLAWUNI

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Tincan Special Area Command has recorded a significant milestone in the fight against illicit drugs abuse and trafficking.

In the 2023 scorecard issued on Monday, signed by
Mohammed Aminu Abubakar, Area Commander of Tin Can Port, he said that between 1st January to 31st December, 2023, a total of 876.453 kilograms of various illicit drugs and controlled substances were intercepted by the command.

He said that the drugs includes; cocaine, cannabis, and psychotropic substances.

Abubakar also informed that, a total of 15 individuals were arrested and prosecuted during the period, out of which 10 individuals were convicted.

“In one operation carried out at the Tincan Port, a notable seizure of illicit drugs (Cannabis indica also called Colorado} totalling 161.5kg was made, along with sum of $22,900 dollars offered to bribe our officers.

“The intercepted drugs, were concealed within cargo shipments of used véhicles from Montreal Canada, indicating the ingenuity of the involved drug traffickers”

“Furthermore, several investigations were conducted in collaboration with national and international law enforcement agencies, leading to the identification and apprehension of some of the key players in these drug networks.

“The combined efforts proved fruitful, resulting in the arrest of some of the persons directly involved in the importation, distribution, and sales of illicit drugs, while some were arrested red-handed in connection with the illicit drugs importation attempt.

“Throughout the period of theyear 2023, the command embarked on various sensitization and enlightenment activities within and around Tincan Island port.

“These include advocacy visit to all stakeholders in and around the port, public enlightenment and lectures, rallies and engagement of traditional rulers and NGOs around the port environment.

“All the activities were carried out under aegis of ‘War Against Orug Abuse’ (WADA) which Is designed to reduce demand and abuse of illloit drugs and psychotropic substances in Nigeria.

“The NOLEA Tincan Special Area Command would like to thank all stakeholders in the maritime industry, and other relevant government agencies for thelr unwavering support and collaborative effort in these operations.

“Their dedication and joint action have played acrucial . tole in the successes achieved thus far. The command also wants to call on all licensed Customs clearing agents to stop the practice of authorizing third party individuals to clear cargo under thelr company stamp. The practice, automatically makes the company liable to any cargo cleared using its name and stamp.

“This may become a real problem when illicit drugs are discovered and the company could not . provide any tangible information or whereabout of the owners of the cargo.

“Clearing agents have responsibilities to not only adhere to laws, but to cooperate with law enforcement agent undertaking an investigation. In line with our mandate and commitment to the rule of law, all arrested individuals will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

“The NDLEA Tincan Special Area Command sends a strong message to all those involved in drug trafficking and other illicit activities: there is no haven for criminals in our society. We intend to use every available resource to bring you to justice and put an end to your illegal operations.

“The seizure arrests and consequent prosecutions conducted by the NDLEA Tincan Special Area Command further strengthen our resolve to create a drug-free society. We continue to enhance our intelligence capabilities, invest in modern equipment, and provide training for our officers to combat drug trafficking effectively.

“The agency urges the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to drug trafficking to the NDLEA or relevant law enforcement agencies. Together, we can create a safer and drug-free environment for all Nigerians” the statement reads in part.

Summary of Seizures for the year 2023 includes;

COCAINE 24KG

CANNABIS 852.45KG

TRAMADOL 0.003KG

TOTAL 876.453KG .