The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Tin Can Island Port Command, has recorded a major breakthrough in its anti-smuggling operations with the interception of illicit drugs valued at over N2.5 billion.

Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Frank Onyeka, announced the seizure during a press briefing on Friday, 14 November 2025, describing it as a significant boost to national security and ongoing efforts to curb illicit trade.

According to him, the interception followed a routine examination on 6 November at a bonded terminal, where officers flagged a 40-foot container, MSDU 719833/0, for further scrutiny.

The consignment had been declared as two used vehicles and household items.

However, a joint examination by Customs Enforcement officers, the Customs Intelligence Unit (CIU), and personnel of the NDLEA, DSS and Nigeria Police uncovered concealed narcotics.

The team discovered 500 grams of methamphetamine valued at N7.5 million, and 49 packages of Molly (ecstasy) weighing 105.5kg, with an estimated street value of N2.5 billion.

The total value of the drugs stands at N2,507,500,000.

Comptroller Onyeka said the seizure highlights persistent attempts by criminal networks to exploit Nigeria’s trade environment but assured that the Command remains vigilant.

“This seizure sends a strong and clear message to all criminal elements attempting to exploit our ports and border stations: the Nigeria Customs Service will continue to detect, intercept and dismantle all forms of illicit trade that threaten national security, economic stability and the wellbeing of our citizens,” he warned.

He thanked the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, for supporting intelligence and enforcement operations, and commended partner security agencies for their professionalism.

In line with inter-agency cooperation, the illicit substances were handed over to the NDLEA.

Receiving the items, NDLEA Commander, Tin Can Island Strategic Command, Daniel Onyishi, praised the seamless collaboration between agencies.

“Because of the synergy we are working with, all of us combined will make sure that no illicit drug passes through this port,” he said.