NDLEA seizes codeine at Apapa Port, cites lobal collaboration

Abdullateef Fowewe

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in collaboration with the Nigeria Customs Service has intercepted two containers of illicit codeine at the Apapa seaport, marking a significant victory in the fight against drug trafficking through enhanced international cooperation.

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Speaking at a press briefing on Thursday, NDLEA Assistant Controller General and Commander of Apapa Strategic Command, Buba O Wakawa, emphasised the importance of synergy between Nigerian agencies and international partners in securing the port.

“We are here receiving containers from the customs. That is another manifestation of the synergy that exists between the sister secret agencies. Together, we will make the port very unconditional for any criminal activities,” Wakawa stated.

He explained that the seized containers are the result of international collaboration aimed at thwarting sophisticated smuggling tactics. “These two containers that we see are a product of international collaboration. What happened was that these criminals have devised different ways to try to avoid detection.

“Because there is a Memorandum of Understanding between Nigeria and India to stop the manufacturing of codeine in Nigeria, what they have done now is to use foreign companies and neighbouring countries that do not have MOUs with India. They use a Chardian company for the production of the codeine and then divert it into Nigeria.”

Wakawa cautioned that traffickers are closely monitoring enforcement efforts but reassured that the agency’s resolve remains unshaken.

“I will not talk much, because these people are watching us and because they are watching us, they are following the trends.

“We want to assure you that our collaboration is very robust and will be there whichever angle they come from,” he added.

He concluded by thanking the Nigerian Customs Service for their partnership and promising a thorough investigation, noting, “Let me use this opportunity once again to thank the Nigerian Customs for the synergy and to assure you and to assure the Nigerian Customs that we’ll pursue the investigation of this case to the logical composition and I will brief you on the outcome.”

Also speaking with journalists, the Lagos State Commissioner of Police lauded the Apapa Customs and the NDLEA for their accomplishments.

The Commissioner emphasised the importance of their collaborative efforts in combating crime.

The Commissioner stated, “It’s a good thing that you gather here today for the achievements recorded by the Customs Service and the NDLEA. We as the police give more with whatever thing they do, and it’s going to be a message to the outside world that’s a no courier for criminal activities.”

He further expressed his appreciation by saying, “Once again, kudos to the Customs Service.”