The Nigerian Navy Ship, NNS, BEECROFT has intercepted 757 kilograms of suspected cannabis sativa during a series of intelligence-led operations carried out across different parts of Lagos State.
The illicit substances, packed in 18 bags, were recovered in three separate operations conducted between April 7 and July 17 before being handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, at the Navy Base in Apapa for further investigation.
Speaking during the handover, the Commander of NNS BEECROFT, Commodore Aiwuyor Adams-Aliu, said the seizures were made following credible intelligence that guided the operations.
According to him, five bags of the suspected cannabis were recovered at Abule Osun on April 7, while another two bags were intercepted at Ikare Island on April 13. The remaining 11 bags were seized at Alpha Beach on July 15.
Adams-Aliu credited the successful operations to the Nigerian Navy’s Western Regional Control Centre, known as Falcon Eye, an advanced maritime surveillance system equipped with long-range cameras and sensors designed to monitor coastal areas beyond the operational reach of patrol boats.
He explained that the technology provided real-time intelligence, enabling naval personnel to track and intercept suspected traffickers before they could carry out their activities.
The commander said the recoveries reflected the Nigerian Navy’s renewed emphasis on technology-driven maritime security under the leadership of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas.
He reaffirmed NNS BEECROFT’s commitment to sustaining intelligence-based operations aimed at combating drug trafficking and other maritime crimes in collaboration with the NDLEA and other security agencies.
Receiving the recovered exhibits on behalf of the NDLEA Marine Command, Commander of Narcotics Luka Yerima commended the Navy for its continued partnership in the fight against illicit drug trafficking.
Yerima assured that the agency would continue to strengthen collaboration with security agencies to dismantle organised criminal networks involved in the illegal drug trade.
He added that the seized substances would undergo forensic analysis as investigations continue to identify and prosecute those behind the trafficking operation.
Lagos: Nigerian Navy seizes 757kg of suspected cannabis, hands exhibits to NDLEA
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