Authorities Seize 30.1kg of Cocaine on Marshall Islands-Flagged Vessel at Apapa Port

The Nigeria Customs Service and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have intercepted 30.1 kilograms of cocaine on board a Marshall Islands-flagged vessel at Apapa Port in Lagos, officials confirmed. The seizure occurred during a targeted inspection of the vessel’s containers, with the illicit substance discovered concealed among legitimate cargo. Both agencies said this interception reflects intensified efforts to curb drug trafficking through Nigeria’s busiest seaport.

Customs Area Controller Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada Adamu confirmed the operation, noting that the cocaine was found after intelligence cues and thorough scanning of the vessel’s manifest prompted a physical search of specific containers. He said officers worked closely with NDLEA operatives to verify the contents and secure the contraband, which was then handed over to NDLEA for further analysis and documentation. The total weight of the recovered substance was recorded at 30.1 kilograms.

NDLEA officials said they will conduct detailed forensic tests to determine the origin and purity of the seized cocaine, a critical step in building a prosecution file. The agency is also investigating how the shipment bypassed multiple layers of port security and how cartels may have attempted to conceal the drugs within legitimate consignments bound for international distribution. Authorities declined to disclose the vessel’s name or destination, citing the sensitivity of the ongoing investigation.

What measures do you think should be strengthened at Nigerian ports to prevent the smuggling of hard drugs and other contraband? Comment below and share your thoughts.

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