Customs Intercepts N1.056bn Worth of Illicit Drugs in Edo
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has thwarted a major drug smuggling attempt, as operatives of the Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone C, Owerri, intercepted a truck conveying prohibited pharmaceutical products along the Okada–Ofosu Expressway in Benin City, Edo State.
The seizure comprised 1,025,000 tablets of Tramadol and 10,000 bottles of Barcadin Codeine syrup (100ml each), with a total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N1.056 billion.
Controller of the Unit, Comptroller Bishir Balogun, stated that the operation, carried out on March 15, 2026, was driven by credible intelligence and coordinated enforcement efforts. He disclosed that the truck driver fled into a nearby bush after being flagged down by officers.
Subsequent examination of the vehicle revealed that the illicit drugs were concealed among legitimate goods in a deliberate attempt to evade detection.
Comptroller Balogun noted that the interception underscores the Service’s ongoing efforts to curb the illegal importation of substances such as Tramadol and Codeine, which contribute to drug abuse, insecurity, and broader social issues.
He cautioned smugglers and criminal elements to desist from unlawful activities, emphasizing that Customs operations are increasingly intelligence-led and geared toward protecting public health and national security.
The seized consignments are now in custody, while investigations are ongoing to track down and prosecute those connected to the shipment.
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