Nigeria Customs Seizes N1.05 Billion Tramadol Shipment in Edo

Nigeria Customs Service, Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone C, Owerri, has intercepted tramadol capsules and other pharmaceutical products valued at approximately N1.05 billion along the Okada/Ofusu Expressway in Benin, Edo State. The seizure, announced in a statement released on Saturday, was carried out through intelligence-driven and coordinated enforcement operations.

Customs Area Controller Comptroller Bishir Balogun said operatives flagged down a truck carrying the contraband, but the driver attempted to evade arrest and fled into nearby bush, abandoning the vehicle. A thorough search revealed the illicit drugs concealed among legitimate goods in an attempt to avoid detection.

The seized items have a Duty Paid Value of N1.05 billion. Balogun emphasized that the operation highlights the service’s commitment to curbing the smuggling of prohibited substances. He noted that drugs such as tramadol and codeine fuel drug abuse and criminal activities across the country.

The controller warned smugglers to desist from illegal activities, stressing that the service would continue deploying intelligence-led strategies to safeguard public health and national security. He added that the consignment remains in custody while investigations are underway to apprehend those responsible for the shipment.

This interception underscores ongoing efforts by Nigerian authorities to combat the trafficking of controlled pharmaceuticals, which pose significant risks to public safety and contribute to broader security challenges.