Cocaine Seized at Apapa Port in Joint NCS, NDLEA Operation

Another major drug interception has been recorded at Nigeria’s busiest seaport, reinforcing concerns about trafficking routes and the ongoing efforts to block them.

Officers of the Nigeria Customs Service at the Apapa Area Command, working in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, have intercepted thirty slabs of cocaine aboard a foreign vessel at Apapa Port, Lagos.

The seizure occurred on Friday at the Greenview Terminal and involved the Marshall Islands-registered ship, MV Aruna.

According to authorities, the discovery highlights the persistent attempts by traffickers to move illegal substances into the country through major maritime routes.

Details of the operation

In a statement released by Isah Sulaiman, Public Relations Officer of the Apapa Port Command, the cocaine was found concealed on the vessel using sophisticated smuggling methods.

The concealment, officials said, points to the evolving tactics employed by drug traffickers to evade detection.

Emmanuel Oshoba, the Apapa Area Controller of the Nigeria Customs Service, commended the officers involved for their vigilance, especially during the New Year holiday period.

He described the operation as clear evidence of the command’s continued commitment to enforcing regulations and preventing illicit activities at the port.

Transfer to NDLEA and investigation

Following the interception, the seized narcotics were formally handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency.

The NDLEA will conduct further analysis and investigation to support the prosecution of those responsible for the shipment.

This step ensures that due process is followed and that evidence is properly documented for legal proceedings.

A pattern of recent interceptions

The cocaine seizure at Apapa Port marks the third major drug interception carried out by the joint NCS-NDLEA enforcement team in recent weeks.

Security officials say this trend reflects both increased enforcement pressure and the continued interest of trafficking networks in exploiting Nigeria’s ports.