By Victoria Adonye Ibiama
The Forward Operating Base (FOB) of the Nigerian Navy in Badagry, Lagos has handed over 11 sacks of cannabis sativa valued at N17.6 million to the National Drugs Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Badagry.
Navy Capt. Aiwuyor Adams-Aliu, the FOB Commanding Officer, revealed that the suspected cannabis sativa was seized on December 15 at a yard close to Apa community, Badagry. Lt. EU Okorie, the Base Intelligence Officer, represented Adams-Aliu during the handover.
The operation was initiated based on intelligence tip-offs about suspected smuggling activities within the FOB’s area of operations.
The Navy’s Base Response Team conducted a cordon and search operation, leading to the recovery of 11 sacks of the suspected products. The suspected smugglers fled upon sighting the Patrol Team, and subsequent searches in adjoining communities revealed no other products or suspects.
Adams-Aliu emphasized that investigations are ongoing, in collaboration with other security agencies, to identify and apprehend the drug trafficking syndicate responsible for the seized cannabis.
Highlighting recent naval initiatives, Adams-Aliu mentioned the Chief of Naval Staff’s mission to maintain a professionally competent naval force capable of defending Nigeria’s maritime area of interest. Operation Water Guard, launched by Rear Admiral Mustapha Hussan, aims to curb the freedom of action of smugglers and other criminal elements in the Badagry General Area for regional security and economic stability.
The 11 sacks of suspected products were handed over to the NDLEA in accordance with the Harmonised Standard Operating Procedures for Arrest, Detention, and Prosecution of Persons 2016. Mrs. Ogomegbunem Nwadui, Deputy Commander Narcotics, received the exhibit on behalf of Mr. Owen Dinneys, Area Commander, Seme Special Command of NDLEA.
She pledged to commence investigations into the seized items and reiterated that anyone caught dealing in illegal drugs and smuggling them into the country would face legal consequences. Nwadui commended the Nigerian Navy for their successful operation and assured continued collaboration in combating drug-related menace.
