Chigozie Daniel
The Nigeria Customs Service Ogun I Area Command has intercepted a major shipment of illicit drugs and military uniforms along the Idiroko border corridor in Ogun State, exposing what authorities described as a dangerous criminal operation with serious security implications.
The command said the seizure involved cannabis products valued at N259.68 million alongside several military camouflage items allegedly meant for unlawful use.
The Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller of Customs Oladapo Afeni, disclosed the development during a press briefing held at the command headquarters in Idiroko.
Afeni explained that operatives acted on intelligence reports before intercepting a luxury bus without a registration number moving through the border route.
According to him, officers subjected the vehicle to a comprehensive search which uncovered concealed military uniforms and large quantities of synthetic cannabis.
He warned that the unauthorised possession of military uniforms remained a serious national security concern because criminal elements often disguise as security personnel to evade checks and perpetrate crimes.
The Customs boss stated that the interception reflected the command’s renewed determination to dismantle smuggling syndicates and criminal networks operating around the border communities.
A breakdown of the recovered items showed that officers seized 197 camouflage trousers and shorts hidden inside unmarked cartons.
The seizure also included five camouflage two piece sets, 32 mixed camouflage undergarments and 32 camouflage tops suspected to be intended for illegal distribution.
Afeni further disclosed that operatives recovered 154 packs of synthetic cannabis indica commonly called Canadian loud as well as seven parcels of Colorado.
He stressed that intelligence driven operations and stronger collaboration among security agencies had continued to improve the fight against smuggling and transnational crimes.
The Customs controller appealed to residents of border communities to support law enforcement agencies with timely and credible information capable of exposing criminal activities.
“Through dedication and stronger synergy with sister agencies, we are committed to tackling the dual threats of smuggling and insecurity head on,” Afeni stated.
Receiving the seized drugs, the Deputy Commander of Narcotics, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency Idiroko Special Area Command, Ganiyu Adeyoye, described the operation as a significant breakthrough.
Adeyoye noted that the involvement of suspects in the case would aid investigations and ensure that all individuals linked to the illegal shipment are prosecuted in accordance with the law.