PRESS RELEASE
The Marine Unit of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has foiled attempt by a West African drug syndicate to employ the services of fishermen in smuggling 1,020.5kg of compressed dried weeds suspected to be cannabis. The marine officers attached to the Apapa Port Command Lagos intercepted the drug on Nigerian waters during patrol. Five suspected fishermen comprising Beninese, Ghanaian and a Nigerian have been arrested in connection with the illegal importation of the drug from Ghana.
This is the highest single seizure of cannabis made by the Marine Unit since its establishment. The drug has a street value of ten million naira. The five suspects conveying the drugs in a motorized boat at the time of arrest are, Joseph Akpe, 36, Nigerian, Gabriel Fokito, 32, Ghanaian, Zutah Edward, 42, Ghanaian, Ameriato Tafe, 30, Beninese and Celestine Azarante, 27, Beninese.
NDLEA Apapa Port Commander, Mr. Nse Jack said that the compressed cannabis originated from Ghana. “Officers of the Marine Unit, Apapa Port Command of the Agency intercepted a boat containing twenty-three consignment of compressed dried weeds suspected to be cannabis sativa concealed in white sacks and wrapped in black polythene. The shipment originated from Ghana through Benin Republic. Those under investigation include two citizens of Ghana, two citizens of Benin Republic and a Nigerian” Nse stated.
The suspects in their statements have owned up to the crime and will be charged to court soon. According to Joseph Akpe who led other suspects, “we were given 100,000 naira part payment for logistics. We would have collected a balance of 250,000 naira if not for the arrest” Joseph told investigators.
Chairman/Chief Executive of the NDLEA, Ahmadu Giade commended the marine officers for their vigilance leading to the arrest. “This is a warning to drug barons that the Agency is prepared to halt their illicit drug activities on water, land and on the air. I commend the arresting officers for their vigilance” Giade stated.
The NDLEA boss added that the Agency will further strengthen the Marine Unit for effective patrol of Nigerian waters.
Ofoyeju Mitchell
Head, Public Affairs
