Nigeria Customs Service Shuts Down Illegal Drug Network, Seizes Pharmaceutical Fakes Worth N1.8 Billion

In a major crackdown on illicit smuggling, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted 12 containers of counterfeit and expired pharmaceutical products, including harmful drugs and sharp objects, estimated to be worth N1.8 billion.

The seized containers were found on Tuesday at the Apapa seaport in Lagos State, according to a statement from the Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi.

The containers were declared to contain a mix of expired and unexpired pharmaceutical products, including tablets, capsules, and vitamin supplements. However, upon examination, investigators found that the containers were actually loaded with “daily health immune supplements” with expiration dates ranging from July this year to December 2025.

One 40-foot container was discovered with a shipment of Baclofen tablets and 10 other controlled pharmaceutical products.

Adeniyi reiterated his commitment to preventing the importation of health-threatening products and assured the public of NCS’ determination to clamp down on smuggling.

In addition to pharmaceutical products, the seizures included cutslasses and machetes hidden among other containers. A total of 27,540 pieces of these items were retrieved.

The NCS chief spokesperson praised the efforts of the Apapa Command’s officers, including Controller General Babatunde Olomu.

In a separate statement, NCS Chief General estimated the policy’s impact on the agency’s revenue to reach N188 billion.

While defending the policy as worthwhile for the suffering masses, the agency pledged its commitment to enforcing regulations.

Following the crackdown, NCS confirmed the seizure of illegal pharmaceutical products to the tune of N1.8 billion