DRUG BURST! TinCan Command Intercepts 185 Bags of Cannabis Indica, Hands over to NDLEA

By Stella Okocha 

The TinCan Island Port Command of the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, has once again disrupted the attempts of Illicit drugs smugglers by intercepting 185 jumbo bags of Cannabis Indica, worth over 18 billion Naira.

Customs Area Controller of the Command, Comptroller Frank Onyeka, revealed this information while speaking to the Press, Stakeholders and Officers at a press briefing at the Enforcement Unit of the Command on the 30th of April, 2026.

According to the CAC, “It is my privilege to address you today on a significant operational breakthrough recorded by the TIPC in collaboration with our strategic partner, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Tincan Island Port Strategic Command”.

He explained that following credible intelligence and sustained inter-agency cooperation, officers of the Command, working jointly with personnel of the NDLEA, conducted a 100% physical examination on a Container with Container No. HAMU429966/1, which has been red-flagged from intelligence gathered.

Frank further highlighted that the container which originated from Canada was initially declared to contain only used vehicles; however, upon thorough examination it was discovered to contain One hundred and eighty-five (185) jumbo bags of Cannabis Indica concealed with one used 2010 Toyota Camry and one used 2023 Chevrolet Colorado.

According to Compt Frank, “further examination revealed that the seized Cannabis Indica comprises of 9,458 packages, with a total weight of 4,729 kilograms, and an estimated street value of ₦18,916,000,000.00 (Eighteen Billion, Nine Hundred and Sixteen Million Naira)”.

He added that this significant seizure demonstrates the vigilance, professionalism, and dedication of his officers, and affirms the strength of the Command’s collaboration with sister agencies.

As he proceeds to hand over the seized drugs to the NDLEA officials present, Compt Onyeka stated, “we formally hand over these illicit drugs to the NDLEA for further investigation and prosecution in line with their statutory mandate..

“This achievement is particularly significant as it comes shortly after the historic agreement between the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency and the Nigeria Customs Service to strengthen inter-agency synergy against drug trafficking and organized crime.

“This framework, which is already yielding tangible results, was signed on April 27, 2026, at the NDLEA Headquarters in Abuja by the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), and the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR PhD.

“As part of the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) of the agreement, both agencies are to follow on strengthening inter-agency collaboration through regular engagements, structured intelligence sharing, and develop coordinated operational guidelines to ensure seamless collaboration”.

“Additionally, the agreement establishes that the headquarter of the standing inter Agency committee is to be domiciled at the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency Headquarters, Abuja..

Compt Frank Onyeka also seized the opportunity to express our profound appreciation to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR , for his visionary leadership and unwavering support in strengthening operational capacity and inter-agency collaboration.

He also extends gratitude to the leadership and personnel of the NDLEA for their professionalism, cooperation, and dedication to safeguarding our nation from the menaceof illicit drugs.

He also thanked critical stakeholders, including port operators, security agencies, and members of the media, for their continuous support and partnership, stating that their role in information dissemination and public awareness is invaluable.

He added that the Tincan Island Port Command remains resolute in its commitment to intensifying synergy with all relevant agencies to secure our borders and ports. “We will continue to deploy intelligence-driven strategies and robust enforcement measures to combat smuggling and illicit trade” he added.

Compt Onyeka also sounded a clear warning to all smugglers and criminal elements, as he declared that the Nigeria Customs Service, in collaboration with its partners, are fully prepared and determined to detect, intercept, and prosecute all forms of illegal activities.”There will be no safe haven for economic saboteurs”.

He reaffirms the dedication of the Command in protecting Nigeria’s economy, safeguarding public health, and ensuring national security..

The Strategic Commander , NDLEA of the TinCan Island Command, Commander Omotosho Solomon Gbadebo, while recieving the Illicit consignment,  appreciated and applauded Compt Frank Onyeka for his Outstanding character and competence.

Omotosho also extends his gratitude to the leadership of both agencies, the officers, as well as the press for their prompt reportage.

He seized the opportunity to sound a note of warning to drug traffickers, warning them to stay away from TinCan Island Port Command, ” as it is a no go area for their Illicit drug activities”.