The Nigerian Navy has arrested three suspected drug traffickers and intercepted 71 kilogrammes of a substance suspected to be Cannabis sativa during a riverine patrol along the River Niger in Kogi State.
The suspects were arrested on September 8 by personnel of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Lugard following credible intelligence on the movement of an illicit drug consignment.
According to the Director of Naval Information, Commodore Abiodun Folorunsho, the naval personnel intercepted a large wooden commercial boat near Chintako Community Jetty in Bassa Local Government Area of the state.
A search of the boat reportedly led to the discovery of the suspected cannabis concealed in its rear compartment.
Following the operation, the three suspects and the recovered consignment were handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Kogi State Command, for further investigation and prosecution.
The NDLEA is expected to investigate the source and ownership of the consignment and identify other individuals who may be connected to its supply and distribution.
The Navy said the interception demonstrated the importance of intelligence-led patrols in tackling the movement of illicit drugs through Nigeria’s inland waterways.
The operation also forms part of ongoing efforts by security agencies to disrupt organised criminal activities and strengthen security along the country’s waterways.
Authorities are expected to continue investigations into the case, while the suspects remain subject to due legal process.
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