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By Steve, Agbota
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone C, Owerri, has recorded a major breakthrough in the fight against illicit drug trafficking with the interception of 1,025,000 tramadol capsules and 10,000 bottles of Barcadin Codeine Syrup along the Okada/Ofosu Expressway in Benin, Edo State.
The seized items have a total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N1.056 billion.
In a statement made available to journalists, the Customs Area Controller of the unit, Comptroller Bishir Balogun, disclosed that the seizure was made through strategic intelligence and coordinated enforcement operations.
He explained that operatives intercepted a truck conveying the contraband. Upon being flagged down, the driver reportedly attempted to evade officers but eventually stopped the vehicle, jumped out, and fled into a nearby bush.
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According to Balogun, a thorough search of the truck revealed that the illicit drugs were cleverly concealed among legitimate goods in a bid to evade detection.
The Customs boss noted that the operation underscores the Service’s unwavering commitment to curbing the smuggling of prohibited substances such as tramadol and codeine, which contribute to drug abuse and criminal activities across the country.
He warned smugglers and criminal networks to desist from illegal activities, stressing that the Nigeria Customs Service will continue to deploy intelligence-driven strategies to safeguard public health and national security.
Balogun added that the seized consignment remains in custody, while investigations are ongoing to apprehend those behind the illegal shipment.
