The Nigerian Navy Ship, NNS BEECROFT, recently made a significant seizure of 193 bags of Indian Hemp, weighing 38kg each, off the coast of Badagry. The bags were confiscated from a 24-year-old Ghanaian, Emmanuel Asamani, by a Naval patrol team on March 16. Commander Rafiu Oladejo of NNS BEECROFT revealed this information during a press briefing, emphasizing the dangers of narcotics use and its link to increased criminal activities.
Asamani claimed ignorance about the final destination of the drugs, leaving the Nigerian Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, to conduct a thorough investigation. Commander Oladejo highlighted the role of drug proceeds in funding criminal activities both at sea and on land, underscoring the importance of intercepting such illicit substances.
Upon receiving the seized contraband and the suspect, Mr. Paul Ahom, Commander of Narcotics at NDLEA Marine Command, commended NNS BEECROFT for its proactive stance in combating drug trafficking in Nigeria’s waterways. He acknowledged the Navy’s pivotal role in drug interception operations and expressed confidence in uncovering the drug’s source and the syndicate responsible for its transportation from Ghana and Togo through the Republic of Benin to Nigeria.
The collaboration between NNS BEECROFT and NDLEA exemplifies a united front against drug trafficking, with a shared commitment to upholding maritime security and combating transnational crime. This successful interception serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to safeguard Nigeria’s waters and prevent the proliferation of illicit substances.