The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) BEECROFT on Monday handed over 20 bags of suspected cannabis sativa weighing 840kg to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

Capt. Idongesit Udoessien, Executive Officer of NNS BEECROFT, said the move was part of efforts to curb illicit drug trafficking and enhance maritime security in Lagos State.

Udoessien represented the Commander, NNS BEECROFT, Commodore Paul Nimmyel, at the handover ceremony held at the naval base in Apapa, Lagos.

He said the Base Quick Response Team, supported by Operation MESA personnel, intercepted a van last Thursday around Ijegun, loaded with the suspected drugs.

“The suspects abandoned the vehicle and fled upon sighting our patrol team,” Udoessien said. “The vehicle and the cannabis have been handed to the NDLEA for action.”

He said the seizure was part of ongoing efforts by the Nigerian Navy, under the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Adm. Emmanuel Ogalla, to tackle maritime crimes.

Udoessien reaffirmed the Navy’s commitment to supporting internal security operations and collaborating with other agencies to safeguard the nation’s waterways and coastal communities.

He added that NNS BEECROFT would intensify patrols and intelligence-driven missions to deny criminals access to Lagos waterways and adjoining creeks.

“We commend the vigilance of our personnel and urge citizens to provide credible information to enhance security across Lagos State,” Udoessien said.