Customs intercepts ₦2.6bn illicit drugs

By Fredrick Ameh

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone ‘C’, has seized illicit drugs valued at over ₦2.6 billion and handed them over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation.

Comptroller of the Unit, Bishir Balogun, said the interception was made through intelligence-led operations and sustained surveillance by officers of the command.

The seized items include 1,126,060 Tramadol tablets, 21,245 bottles of codeine-based syrup, and large quantities of cannabis sativa and other controlled substances.

Balogun said the operation reflects the Service’s ongoing efforts to curb drug trafficking and protect public health.

“These substances pose serious risks to society, contributing to addiction, crime, and instability,” he said.

He added that the Customs Service remains committed to preventing the entry and distribution of illegal drugs, particularly those targeting young people.

The NDLEA received the items in line with its mandate to handle narcotics-related offences, with both agencies reaffirming their collaboration in tackling drug trafficking networks.

Customs also urged members of the public to provide timely information to support enforcement efforts.

The Federal Operations Unit plays a key role in anti-smuggling enforcement across Nigeria, working with agencies such as the NDLEA to disrupt illicit trade and strengthen national security.