Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have intercepted a vessel laden with illicit substances at the Apapa seaport in Lagos, recovering at least 20 kilograms of a Class A drug concealed beneath its cargo.
According to the agency, the ship, which departed from the Port of Santos in Brazil, was subjected to a thorough search upon arrival in Nigeria. NDLEA officers uncovered the concealed narcotics during the operation.
All 20 crew members, including the ship’s master and captain , all of Filipino nationality were taken into custody for further investigation.
Speaking on the development, NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (retd.) said the agency remains committed to strengthening surveillance across the country’s entry and exit points. He noted that the seaports, in particular, have become key targets for criminal networks seeking to smuggle dangerous substances into Nigeria.
Marwa reaffirmed the agency’s resolve, stating that Nigeria would “continue to tighten its grip on all borders, especially the seaports, which many criminals attempt to exploit.
