The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU) zone C, Owerri, said it intercepted tramadol capsules and other pharmaceutical products valued at about N1.05 billion along the Okada/Ofosu Expressway in Benin, Edo.

The Customs Area Controller, FOU Zone C, Comptroller Bishir Balogun, said in a statement on Saturday that the seizure was carried out through intelligence-driven, coordinated enforcement operations.

He explained that operatives intercepted a truck carrying the contraband.

According to him, the driver attempted to evade arrest after being flagged down, but later abandoned the vehicle and fled into a nearby bush.

Mr Balogun said a thorough search of the truck revealed that the illicit drugs were concealed among legitimate goods in an attempt to evade detection.

He said the seized items had a duty paid value (DPV) of N1.05 billion.

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 to drug abuse and criminal activities across the country.

Mr Balogun warned smugglers to desist from illegal activities, stressing that the service would continue to deploy intelligence-driven strategies to safeguard public health and national security.

He added that the seized consignment remained in custody while investigations would continue to apprehend those responsible for the illegal shipment. 

(NAN)