The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has successfully seized 60 jumbo bags of “Ghanaian Loud,” a highly potent strain of cannabis, weighing a total of 2,400 kilograms in Lagos.

This significant drug bust was announced by the agency’s Chairman, Brigadier General Buba Marwa (rtd), during a ceremony in Abuja where he also decorated eight Marine Command officers with new ranks and commendation letters for their bravery and professionalism during the operation.

The officers involved in the operation, recognized for their outstanding service, include Dick Aaron Dick, Alabi Mayowa, Gabriel Ubokikwan, Aso Daniel John, Abdul Emmanuel Sule, Ngabolo Victor Sonpano, and Jonah Emmanuel Sule.

General Marwa lauded these officers for their resilience and commitment, highlighting that their efforts exemplify the NDLEA’s dedication to fighting drug trafficking across Nigeria.

Marwa emphasized that the special promotions and commendations were well-deserved, as the officers had shown remarkable perseverance in the face of danger.

He explained that the successful interception of the cannabis was a testament to their professionalism and determination, especially given the difficult conditions they encountered during the operation, which aimed to prevent illicit drugs from being transported from Ghana to Nigeria through Lagos’ waterways.

Recalling the specifics of the mission, Marwa stated that the NDLEA’s Special Marine Squad acted swiftly upon receiving actionable intelligence at 3 a.m. on August 23.

The officers launched their operation at Alfa Beach, located in the Lekki area of Lagos. While they managed to intercept one boat, another was spotted, leading to an intense and challenging situation.

Despite facing aggressive resistance during their attempt to stop the second boat, the officers remained undeterred, successfully seizing the 60 bags of “Ghanaian Loud” and apprehending a suspect, a Ghanaian national. They also impounded the boat, which was equipped with three powerful outboard engines.

Marwa expressed his appreciation for the NDLEA’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the Marine Command with improved equipment and training.

He acknowledged the valuable support provided by the UK Home Office International Operations, which has contributed to enhancing the agency’s operational capacity.

This collaboration, he noted, has enabled the NDLEA to carry out its mandate more effectively, especially in complex missions like this.

The NDLEA chairman further stressed the importance of inter-agency collaboration in the fight against drug trafficking.

He reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to working closely with other security agencies and relevant stakeholders to tackle the drug trade in Nigeria and the surrounding region.

In his address to the newly promoted officers, Marwa urged them to continue their exceptional work while remaining mindful of the dangers inherent in their duties.

He reminded them of the need to uphold the highest standards of integrity, both on and off duty, and to always adhere to the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) set forth by the agency.

Marwa emphasized that these procedures are vital for ensuring the safety of the officers and the success of their missions, without risking unnecessary casualties.

He concluded by encouraging the officers to remain vigilant, noting that while the recent success was a significant achievement, much more work lies ahead in the ongoing battle against drug trafficking in Nigeria.