The Nigerian Navy has intercepted and handed over a large haul of illegal drugs to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in a continued effort to secure the nation’s waterways.

On Thursday, officers of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Beecroft officially handed over 45 bags of suspected cannabis sativa, weighing 1,575 kilograms, to the NDLEA at their Apapa base in Lagos.

The seizure was made on July 4 after the Navy’s quick response team, acting on solid intelligence, intercepted two wooden boats suspected of transporting illegal substances near Takwa Bay and Ilesha Beach. According to the Commander of NNS Beecroft, Paul Nimyel, the suspects escaped upon sighting the naval patrol team.

Represented by the base’s Executive Officer, Captain Idongesit Udoessien, Commander Nimyel said the operation is part of ongoing efforts by the Navy under Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla to curb illicit drug trafficking and strengthen maritime security.

“This operation shows our commitment to protecting Nigeria’s waterways and supporting national security. We continue to work closely with sister agencies to ensure criminals have no safe haven,” he said.

 

The Deputy Commander of NDLEA Marine Command, Emmanuel Morrison, received the seized cannabis, confirming it will be transferred to the agency’s exhibit store and destroyed following legal procedures.

Morrison praised the Navy’s vigilance and cooperation in the fight against illegal drug trafficking and urged for continued public support through timely, useful information.

The Nigerian Navy also called on citizens to remain alert and report suspicious activity, as efforts to keep Nigeria’s waters safe from criminal elements intensify.