The Nigeria Customs Service, Federal Operations Unit Zone C, Owerri, has intercepted tramadol capsules and other pharmaceutical products with a Duty Paid Value of N1.05bn along the Okada/Ofosu Expressway in Benin, Edo State.
This was contained in a statement made available to journalists on Saturday.
The Customs Area Controller, FOU Zone C, Comptroller Bishir Balogun, said the seizure was made through intelligence-driven and coordinated enforcement operations.
He explained that operatives intercepted a truck conveying the contraband items along the route.
According to him, the driver attempted to evade arrest when flagged down by customs officers but later abandoned the vehicle and fled into a nearby bush.
Balogun said a thorough search of the truck revealed that the illicit drugs were concealed among legitimate goods in a bid to evade detection.
He added that the seized items had a Duty Paid Value of N1.05bn.
The controller said the operation underscored the service’s commitment to curbing the smuggling of prohibited substances.
He noted that substances such as tramadol and codeine contribute significantly to drug abuse and criminal activities across the country.
Balogun warned smugglers to desist from illegal activities, stressing that the service would continue to deploy intelligence-led strategies to safeguard public health and national security.
He added that the seized consignment remained in custody, while investigations were ongoing to apprehend those behind the illegal shipment.
(NAN)
