The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, has seized 60 jumbo bags of Ghanaian Loud, a potent strain of cannabis, weighing 2,400kg in Lagos.
NDLEA Chairman, Buba Marwa, announced this while decorating eight Marine Command officers with new ranks and commendation letters in Abuja.
He emphasized that the special promotion and commendation are a testament to the officers’ resilience and dedication to duty, despite facing adversity during the operation to intercept illicit drugs from Ghana to Nigeria through Lagos waterways.
Marwa, who recapped the details of the particular operation, said the Special Marine Squad received actionable intelligence at 3am on Aug 23.
He said they immediately swung into action and intercepted a boat along Alfa beach, in Lekki, Lagos adding that another boat was equally sighted.
“They, however, faced some unfavourable encounters in the process of intercepting the second boat but in the face of violent provocation, our officers did not lose focus, as they went ahead to recover the exhibits.
“They were able to seize 60 bags of Ghanaian Loud, a strong strain of cannabis, weighing 2, 400 kgs. They successfully arrested a suspect, who is Ghanaian and impounded the exhibit boat powered by three outboard engines,” he said.
Marwa commended the agency’s recent efforts to reinforce the Marine Command with equipment and training, acknowledging the support of the UK Home Office International Operations.
He emphasized that the successful operation demonstrates the agency’s commitment to collaborating with security agencies and stakeholders to combat drug trafficking.
Marwa urged the officers to maintain the momentum, protect the job’s integrity, and be mindful of their actions, both on and off duty.
He encouraged them to remain vigilant, as there is still much work to be done, and dangers are involved.
He emphasized the importance of adhering to established Standard Operating Procedures, and SOPs to ensure success without compromise or casualties.
