By Peter Dansu The Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base (FOB), Badagry, in a decisive move against smuggling and illicit drug trafficking h...
By Peter Dansu
The Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base (FOB), Badagry, in a decisive move against smuggling and illicit drug trafficking has handed over 97 bags of foreign parboiled rice and 191 wraps of cannabis sativa to the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), respectively.
The handover ceremony, held in Badagry, highlighted the Navy’s intensified operations within Nigeria’s maritime domain, particularly across its territorial waters, backwaters, and nearby coastal communities. According to Navy Captain Busuyi Omotayo, Commanding Officer of FOB Badagry, the seizures were made between April 23 and May 14, 2024, as part of ongoing efforts to enhance maritime security and enforce national laws.
Represented by Commander Shuaibu Yakubu, the Base’s Executive Officer, Captain Omotayo disclosed that the items intercepted include 97 bags of 50kg foreign parboiled rice, 191 wraps of cannabis sativa weighing approximately 114.6 kilograms, and 307 kegs of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), amounting to 7,675 litres. The operations were carried out in strategic locations such as Igbanko, Ashipa, Gbetrome, Tosuvi, and Panshi, with the quick response team playing a central role in the successful interceptions.
In accordance with Navy protocols, the seized rice was handed over to the Western Marine Command of the Nigeria Customs Service, while the cannabis was transferred to the NDLEA Seme Special Area Command for further investigation. The seized petrol was destroyed to prevent its illegal distribution and use.
Captain Omotayo emphasized that the operations are in line with the Chief of Naval Staff’s Strategic Directive 06-2023, which focuses on strengthening maritime security as a cornerstone for national safety and economic development.
Assistant Commander of Narcotics, Mr. Ogbogoh Emmanuel of the NDLEA Seme Command, acknowledged the handover and assured that full-scale investigations would begin immediately, with a commitment to bringing all involved to justice. He commended the Navy’s proactive stance in combating drug trafficking.
Similarly, SC Sunday Okopi, Assistant Spokesperson for the NCS Western Marine Command, praised the Navy for its consistent partnership and unwavering commitment to protecting Nigeria’s waterways. He reiterated the importance of inter-agency cooperation in tackling maritime crimes.
The Forward Operating Base in Badagry reaffirmed its dedication to working alongside security agencies and local communities to rid Nigeria’s coastal corridors of smuggling and other unlawful activities.
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