The Nigeria Customs Service has identified Ghana as one of the neighboring African countries from which drugs are continuously being smuggled into Nigeria.
James Ojo, the controller of the Nigeria Customs Service, Idi-Iroko 1 command, made this assertion during a press briefing on Thursday, held at the Abeokuta office in Ogun State.
Ojo stated that there has been a significant increase in the smuggling of drugs from Ghana into Nigeria, resulting in numerous seizures.
He recounted an occuring incidents where cannabis sativa was intercepted in a bush where the deliverer had hidden it for the receiver to collect.
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The controller explained that due to the high risk of violence, officers sometimes intervene before the receiver arrives, to prevent potential gunfights and casualties.
He revealed instances where officers collaborate with smugglers in disguise to deliver smuggled goods to the warehouse and then call for backup to seize the contraband.
In the span of 23 days since assuming office, Ojo reported the seizure of 90 sacks and 1,309 parcels of cannabis sativa.
He emphasized the detrimental impact of drug circulation on youth, leading to increased crime and insecurity, as well as contributing to illiteracy as youths prioritize drug consumption and trafficking over education.
Ojo urged youths to abstain from drug use, highlighting the Customs Service’s commitment to reducing drug trafficking in Ogun State to prevent easy access for youths and addicts.
He mentioned that intelligence gathered from neighboring border securities aids in identifying smuggling routes, and cooperation with neighboring countries’ security officials is crucial to curbing illegal imports.
Additionally, Ojo listed other seized items, including 1,596 pieces of foreign-used pneumatic tires, 2,922 bags of 50kg foreign rice, 32 bales of used clothing, 1,603 cartons of frozen poultry products, and 22,600 litres of premium motor spirit, with a duty paid value exceeding ₦380 million.
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