Major Drug Bust at Apapa Port
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), specifically its Apapa Command, announced a significant drug seizure on Saturday, December 6, 2025. Authorities intercepted 25.5 kilograms of cocaine from the Brazilian-flagged vessel, MV San Anthonio, upon its arrival at the Apapa Port in Lagos. The interception, described as a result of an intelligence-led operation, led to the immediate detention of the ship.
Details of the Seizure and Investigation
The illicit substance was found meticulously concealed in 24 parcels or slabs, distributed across five bags aboard the MV San Anthonio. According to Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, the Customs Area Controller for Apapa Port, intelligence reports indicated that the vessel had embarked from Brazil and subsequently made stops in several high-risk locations known for drug trafficking, including Honduras and Guatemala, before heading to Nigeria.
The successful operation was attributed to enhanced collaboration between the NCS and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). Chief Superintendent of Customs Suleiman Isah, the Command's Public Relations Officer, confirmed the details of the seizure. The seized cocaine has since been formally handed over to the NDLEA, represented by CN Haliru Umar, Commander of the Apapa Strategic Command, for further investigation and action.
Official Statements and Future Measures
Comptroller Oshoba reiterated the NCS's unwavering commitment to combating illicit trade and upholding a zero-tolerance stance against criminal activities at Apapa Port. He stated, 'What we witnessed today is the outcome of thorough profiling and intelligence-led operations jointly executed by NCS and NDLEA.' He further issued a stern warning to criminal networks, emphasizing that 'This seizure, and the detention of the vessel, serves as a strong warning to criminal networks attempting to exploit our port system. Our coordination with sister agencies has never been stronger, and no syndicate will outsmart us.'
With the festive season approaching, the Apapa Command plans to intensify scrutiny of all inbound and outbound cargoes to safeguard national security and protect the economy from prohibited items. The detention of the MV San Anthonio is ongoing, pending the conclusion of investigations.
5 Comments
Habibi
This is a positive step in securing our borders against illicit trade. However, focusing solely on port seizures might not be enough if the international supply chains and local distribution networks remain intact.
Comandante
It's good to see inter-agency collaboration yielding results, but we must also question how many other vessels slip through. This bust is a success, yet it's likely just the tip of a very large iceberg.
Mariposa
Zero tolerance is the only way. Well done, Apapa Command!
Africa
Big win against drug traffickers. Protect our nation!
Coccinella
A significant bust indeed, proving that vigilance pays off at our ports. Yet, the detention of one vessel doesn't dismantle the entire network; ongoing, sustained pressure on all fronts is essential to truly make an impact.