The Nigerian Navy has handed over 72 bags of cannabis sativa, each weighing 40kg, along with four suspects to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Marine Command.

This development was announced in a statement by the Base Information Officer of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) BEECROFT, Lt. Hussaini Ibrahim, on Tuesday.

Among those handed over were three Ghanaians and one Beninois.

Commodore Rafiu Oladejo, the Commander of NNS BEECROFT, represented by the Executive Officer, Navy Capt. Mutalib Raji, stated that the consignments were intercepted on August 25 by the Quick Response Team.

Oladejo explained that the operation was based on credible intelligence received by NNS BEECROFT regarding suspicious activities by criminal elements around the Lekki Beach area.

This intelligence led to the deployment of the team to the area, resulting in the interception of 72 bags of cannabis sativa, totaling over 2,880kg.

He emphasized that the operation aligns with the Strategic Directive of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Adm. Emmanuel Ogalla, aimed at ensuring a safe and secure maritime environment for economic activities.

“Notably, the team arrested three Ghanaians—Godswill Zevor, Monday Kpomeja, and Gbega Agbeko—and a Beninois, Elugbe Philip,” Oladejo stated.

He also issued a warning to those involved in illicit drug activities, emphasizing that NNS BEECROFT will continue to pursue criminal elements within its operational area.

“This successful operation underscores the relentless efforts of NNS BEECROFT in curbing the spread and use of illicit drugs, which pose significant risks to the health of our youth and national security,” he added. (NAN).