The Nigerian Navy has handed over 19 bags of suspected cannabis seized during a maritime security operation in Anambra State to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation and prosecution.

The seized consignment was transferred by personnel of the Nigerian Navy Naval Outpost, Onitsha, as part of ongoing efforts by security agencies to curb the movement and distribution of illicit drugs across the state.

The development was reported on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, with the handover underscoring the growing collaboration between the military and the NDLEA in tackling drug trafficking and other criminal activities.

Seized drugs transferred for further action

The 19 bags were described as containing suspected cannabis, a controlled substance whose possession, trafficking and distribution are prohibited under Nigerian law.

The Navy’s decision to formally transfer the consignment to the NDLEA means the anti-narcotics agency will take custody of the exhibits and proceed with the necessary investigative and legal processes to establish the nature of the substance and determine those responsible for it.

The handover also reflects the established role of the NDLEA as the lead agency responsible for combating drug trafficking and illicit drug activities in Nigeria, while the Navy continues to play a critical role in preventing criminal activities along the nation’s waterways and maritime environment.

Security agencies have continued to intensify operations against the movement of illicit drugs, particularly through routes that may be exploited by traffickers to transport prohibited substances between communities and across state borders.

In Anambra and other parts of the South-East, law-enforcement agencies have repeatedly carried out operations targeting drug dealers, criminal networks and other activities considered threats to public safety.

The latest seizure therefore adds to ongoing enforcement efforts aimed at disrupting the supply chain for cannabis and other controlled substances.

The exact weight and street value of the 19 bags were not immediately disclosed in the initial report, and the authorities had not announced any arrest specifically linked to the consignment at the time of the handover.

The suspected cannabis will now remain in the custody of the NDLEA as the agency conducts further examination and takes whatever legal steps may be necessary.

The operation also highlights the importance of inter-agency cooperation in combating drug-related offences, with the Navy and NDLEA working alongside other security organisations to detect, intercept and prevent the movement of illicit substances.

Authorities have continued to warn members of the public against involvement in drug trafficking, noting that individuals involved in the cultivation, possession, transportation or distribution of prohibited drugs risk prosecution under Nigerian law.

The Navy’s handover of the seized bags to the NDLEA is expected to allow the anti-drug agency to carry the matter forward in accordance with its mandate and ensure that the recovered substance is properly documented and handled as evidence.

The development comes amid broader efforts by Nigerian security and law-enforcement agencies to strengthen surveillance and intelligence-led operations against criminal activities, including the trafficking of illicit drugs.

Authorities have also continued to encourage members of the public to provide credible information that can assist security agencies in identifying individuals and networks involved in the illegal drug trade.

With the latest seizure now transferred to the NDLEA, further details on the substance, its quantity, the circumstances surrounding its recovery and any possible arrests are expected to emerge as investigations progress.