In a significant New Year operation, a joint task force comprising the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has successfully intercepted a large consignment of cocaine at the Apapa Port in Lagos.
Coordinated Operation Nets Major Haul
The interception took place on Friday, January 2, 2026, marking a decisive start to the year for the security agencies. Acting on coordinated intelligence, officers targeted the MV Aruna, a vessel flying the flag of the Marshall Islands, at the Greenview Terminal within the port complex.
A meticulous search of the ship led to the discovery and seizure of 30.1 kilograms of cocaine. The illicit substance was found to be carefully concealed on board, demonstrating the sophisticated methods traffickers are using to infiltrate Nigeria's busiest seaport.
Leadership Commends Vigilance and Synergy
Emmanuel Oshoba, the Customs Area Controller for the Apapa Command, personally confirmed the operation. He praised the officers from both agencies for their professionalism and alertness.
"This achievement reflects the strong inter-agency synergy between federal government entities and our commitment to intelligence-led enforcement," Oshoba stated. He issued a stern warning to criminal elements, adding, "While criminal elements seek to outsmart us, our officers remain one step ahead, ensuring no smuggling attempt, whether disguised as import, export, or transit cargo, succeeds under my watch."
Oshoba described the successful bust as a firm statement of intent for the year 2026, reaffirming the command's unwavering zero-tolerance policy towards illicit trade.
Part of a Sustained Crackdown
This latest seizure is not an isolated incident but part of a sustained offensive against drug trafficking through the nation's ports. It represents the third major drug interception by the joint NCS-NDLEA team in recent weeks.
The agencies' recent successes include:
- The seizure of 25.5 kilograms of cocaine hidden in five bags on another vessel just two weeks prior.
- An earlier operation on December 11, 2025, which uncovered 1,187 kilograms of 'Canadian Loud' cannabis. The drug was packed in 2,374 parcels across 55 bags and concealed inside imported vehicles within a 40-foot container at the same port.
In line with standard procedure, the NDLEA has taken custody of the seized 30.1kg of cocaine for further in-depth investigation and to facilitate the prosecution of all individuals connected to the shipment.
The Customs Area Controller reiterated that while the Apapa Command is dedicated to facilitating legitimate international trade, its primary mandate of safeguarding national security remains non-negotiable.
