The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) BEECROFT Quick Response Team has intercepted substances suspected to be cannabis sativa at the Ibeju Lekki and Alaba Rago areas of Lagos State.
The team is under the leadership of the Commander, Nigerian Navy Ship BEECROFT and Maritime Component Commander Operation AWATSE, Commodore Kolawole Olumide Oguntuga.
Speaking on the operation yesterday, Oguntuga said the Quick Response Team during a routine intelligence-led patrol intercepted a large wooden boat at Ibeju Lekkic laden with 64 bags of Cannabis sativa, weighing over 2,500kg.
“Subsequently, a targeted raid based on credible intelligence around Alaba Rago led to the interception of another sack containing over 23 wraps of substances suspected to be derivatives of cannabis sativa known as SK, in the early hours of January 14,” he said.
Commodore Oguntuga commended the efforts of the Nigerian Navy Ship BEECROFT and pledged that it has curbed the influx of narcotics into the country through Lagos waterways.
“This is more spectacular, especially recognising the nexus between drugs, violence and crime. Furthermore, apart from the fact that ill-gotten wealth from these narcotics could be used to finance criminality, the abuse also poses grave risk to the psyche and health of users, resulting in unpredictable behaviours with attendant consequences on national security.
“The intercepted narcotics have been handed over to officials of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for necessary action.
“The successful interception underscores commitment of the Nigerian Navy in furtherance of the Strategic Directives of Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, towards maintaining a secure and drug-free nation to enhance national development and economic prosperity,” he added.
