The Tin Can Island Port Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has recorded a significant milestone in its efforts to combat smuggling and illicit trade. In a series of crackdown operations, the Command seized illicit drugs worth an estimated ₦5.304 billion.
This disclosure was made during a press briefing held at its headquarters on Friday 24th October 2025
The seizures were made possible through intelligence-driven operations and enhanced surveillance by the Command’s enforcement teams. The illicit drugs seized included various types of narcotics and psychotropic substances which include:
According to the Area Controller, the first container, with number HLXU8500072 and Bill of Lading Number HLCUTOR2506000834, originating from Montreal, Canada, was intercepted on 4 September 2025 through meticulous intelligence and coordinated enforcement efforts. Upon 100% physical examination, jointly conducted with other relevant agencies, the container was found to contain four vehicles with concealed quantities of 156 packets of Colorado Indica (a strain of cannabis) weighing 78 kilograms, and 1.2 kilograms of Hashish Oil.
The second container, numbered FANU 312876/9, was intercepted on 24 October 2025, following actionable intelligence provided by the Customs Area Controller. The container, also carrying four vehicles, was found to conceal 2,081 packages of Cannabis Indica weighing 1,093 kilograms and eight (8) packages of Crystal Methamphetamine (“Meth”) weighing 8 kilograms.
The Customs Area Controller (CAC) of the Tin Can Island Port Command, Comptroller…, commended the officers and men of the Command for their dedication and hard work in ensuring the seizure of the illicit drugs.
The CAC noted that the Command remains committed to its statutory responsibility of preventing the importation of contraband and protecting the health and well-being of Nigerians.
The seized illicit drugs are being kept in secure storage pending further investigation and prosecution. The Command is working closely with relevant agencies to identify the owners of the seized drugs and bring them to justice.
The Tin Can Island Port Command’s efforts to combat smuggling and illicit trade have been yielding positive results. The Command has been working to strengthen its enforcement capabilities and enhance collaboration with other agencies.
The seizure of illicit drugs worth ₦5.304 billion is a significant blow to smuggling syndicates and a testament to the Command’s commitment to its mandate. The Command’s efforts are expected to contribute to the reduction of the circulation of illicit drugs in the country.
The Command urges members of the public to continue to support its efforts by providing intelligence and reporting suspicious activities. The Command assures the public that it will continue to work tirelessly to ensure the security and well-being of Nigerians.
The Tin Can Island Port Command’s achievement is a demonstration of its resolve to combat smuggling and illicit trade. The Command’s efforts are expected to have a positive impact on the country’s economy and the health of its citizens.
