In a significant crackdown on illicit drug activities, the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) BEECROFT has apprehended 27 suspected drug peddlers during a well-coordinated raid on a criminal enclave in Gidan Drama, located along Malu Road in Apapa, Lagos.
The operation, which took place on Saturday, April 5, 2025, targeted a location identified as a hub for drug-related activities. The suspects arrested comprised 24 males and 3 females. During the raid, naval personnel recovered various illicit substances, including Cannabis sativa, Canadian loud, tramadol, and cough syrup containing codeine—commonly abused drugs that contribute to the growing issue of substance abuse in the country.
The Nigerian Navy stated that the raid was part of its ongoing efforts to support internal security operations and contribute to the national fight against drug trafficking and abuse. The operation was based on credible intelligence and executed in line with the Navy’s mandate to support civil authorities in maintaining law and order.
In a formal handover ceremony held on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, the 27 suspects, along with the seized exhibits, were transferred to officials of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation and possible prosecution. The handover underscores the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to inter-agency collaboration in addressing the country’s security challenges.
Commander of NNS BEECROFT, Commodore Kolawole Oguntuga, reiterated the Navy’s zero-tolerance stance on criminal activities within its area of operations. He called on residents to remain vigilant and to support security agencies by providing timely and accurate information that can help disrupt criminal networks.
The Nigerian Navy emphasized that it will continue to conduct similar operations across identified hotspots as part of broader efforts to safeguard maritime and coastal communities from the effects of drug trafficking and other criminal enterprises.
