In a significant anti-narcotics operation, the Apapa Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted a large consignment of cocaine aboard a vessel that arrived from South America.
Massive Drug Haul Uncovered in Intelligence-Led Operation
The seizure occurred on 6 December 2025 at the Apapa Port in Lagos. Customs officials discovered 25.5 kilogrammes of cocaine carefully concealed on the Brazilian-flagged ship, MV San Anthonio. The illicit substance was packaged in 24 separate parcels or slabs, which were hidden inside five bags found on the vessel.
According to a statement from the Command's Public Relations Officer, Isah Suleiman, the discovery was the result of proactive, intelligence-led checks conducted by customs operatives. The operation also led to the immediate detention of the ship.
Ship's Suspicious Route and a Strong Warning
The Customs Area Controller for Apapa Port, Emmanuel Oshoba, provided critical details about the vessel's journey. Intelligence reports indicated that after departing from its country of origin, Brazil, the MV San Anthonio made stops at several ports, including those in Honduras and Guatemala. These locations are reportedly known as suspected hubs for international drug trafficking networks.
Controller Oshoba issued a stern warning to criminal elements, emphasizing the NCS's unwavering commitment to securing the nation's ports. He stated that the seizure and detention should serve as a powerful message to anyone involved in unlawful trade within the port system.
"Customs is strengthening its synergy with all sister government agencies, and no criminal or group of lawless persons can beat us here," Oshoba declared. He reiterated the zero-compromise directive from the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, stressing that legitimate trade is the only kind welcome at Apapa.
Handover to NDLEA and Commitment to Security
Oshoba highlighted that the successful bust was a direct result of robust collaboration between the NCS and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). Following the discovery, the seized drugs were formally handed over to the NDLEA for further investigation and prosecution.
At a brief handover ceremony at the port, the NDLEA was represented by the Commander of its Apapa Strategic Command, Haliru Umar, who took custody of the narcotics. The detained vessel was also handed over for the agency's necessary actions.
With the festive season approaching, Controller Oshoba assured the public that the service would not compromise on national security for the sake of trade facilitation. "All consignments exiting this port into our markets or warehouses must be duly examined, with the contents ascertained to be what was declared," he affirmed, underscoring the NCS's role as a critical gatekeeper for the Nigerian economy and society.
