By Philip Nwosu
A Naval rating allegedly found in possession of 14.5 kilogrammes of cannabis sativa (Indian Hemp) has been dismissed and handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for prosecution.
The Nigerian Navy said that the officer was dismissed after he was found guilty of the offence.
A statement from Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Beecroft said the personnel, a Seaman, was arrested with the substance and was summarily tried and dismissed.
The statement signed by the spokesperson of the unit, Lieutenant Elizabeth Ibrahim, said: “On June 7, 2016, 0ne ex-Seaman, H. Umar, X13555, was arrested for being in possession of about 14.55kg of illicit substance suspected to be canabis sativa.
“The ex-rating was summarily tried and the legal review of the trial indicated that the accused was properly charged and due process was complied with during the trial.
“He was found guilty and the sentence of dismissal was awarded to him for peddling illicit drugs.
Accordingly, the ex-rating was handed over to the NDLEA.” for necessary action.
“This is to inform the general public that he is no longer a member of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Anyone who transacts business with him does so at his or her own risk”.