Nigerian Navy Intercepts Bags of Narcotics, Advances Operation Water Guard

Sunday Ehigiator

In a show of maritime security in furtherance of the ongoing ‘Operation Water Guard’, the Nigerian Navy Ship BEECROFT Quick Response Team, under the leadership of the Commander Nigerian Navy Ship BEECROFT and Maritime Component Commander Operation AWATSE, Commodore Kolawole Olumide Oguntuga, made notable interceptions of substances suspected to be Cannabis Sativa weighing over 2500kg, at Ibeju Lekki and Alaba Rago in Lagos state

In a statement from the command, the interception was said to have been made during a routine intelligence-led patrol.

“The Quick Response Team was successfully vectored by the Maritime Domain Awareness facility, Falcon Eye Alignment to diligently intercept a large wooden boat at Ibeju Lekki laden with 64 bags of Cannabis Sativa, weighing over 2,500KG.

“Subsequently, a targeted raid based on credible intelligence around Alaba Rago led to the interception of another sack containing over 23 wraps of substances suspected to be derivatives of Cannabis Sativa known as SK, in the early hours of January 14, 2024.

“Efforts of the Nigerian Navy Ship BEECROFT are commendable as it has sustained curbing the influx of narcotics into the country through Lagos waterways. This is more spectacular, especially recognizing the nexus between drugs, violence and crime.

“Furthermore, apart from the fact that ill-gotten wealth from these narcotics could be used to finance criminality, the abuse also poses a grave risk to the psyche and health of users, resulting in unpredictable behaviours with attendant consequences on national security.

“The intercepted narcotics have been handed over to officials of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for necessary action.

“The successful interception underscores the commitment of the Nigerian Navy in furtherance of the Strategic Directives of Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, Chief of the Naval Staff, towards maintaining a secure and drug-free Nation to enhance national development and economic prosperity.”