Customs intercepts N2.35bn cocaine, nabs 71-year-old suspect in Lagos

The Nigeria Customs Service, Federal Operations Unit Zone A, has intercepted 6.35kg of cocaine valued at N2.35 billion along the Lagos-Abidjan corridor.

Comptroller Gambo Aliyu disclosed this at the handing over of seized cocaine and other illicit substances to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Lagos on Tuesday, May 5, 2026.

Aliyu said the command also seized contraband including explosives, petrol, Ghana Loud, and others valued above N5.5 billion, foiling 473 smuggling attempts in eight weeks.

Aliyu said Customs officers intercepted a Toyota Highlander conveying 6.35kg of cocaine, with a 71-year-old Nigerian arrested in connection with the seizure.

He added that the cocaine was recovered during a separate operation along the Lagos-Abidjan corridor.

He said seizures were recorded across Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, and Ondo States, with several suspects arrested.

Aliyu disclosed that four cylinders of mercury, each weighing 80kg, were also intercepted, describing the substance as hazardous under the Minamata Convention on Mercury.

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He said the mercury would be handed over to the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) for further investigation.

He handed over seized drugs and three suspects to the NDLEA for investigation and prosecution.

NDLEA Commander Ibrahim Kabiru commended customs operatives for synergy and professionalism.

“I formally received two parcels of suspected cocaine weighing 2.30kg, four parcels of crack cocaine weighing 4.05kg, 3,340 cannabis parcels, and three suspects,” Kabiru said.