The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone C, Owerri, has recorded a major breakthrough in the fight against illicit drug trafficking, intercepting over one million tablets of Tramadol and 10,000 bottles of Barcadin Codeine syrup along the Okada/Ofosu Expressway in Benin City, Edo State.
Customs Area Controller of the Command, Comptroller Bashir Balogun, who disclosed the development, said the seizure was made on March 15, 2026, following actionable intelligence and a coordinated enforcement operation.
The confiscated consignment, with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N1,056,000,000, comprised 1,025,000 Tramadol tablets and 10,000 bottles of Barcadin Codeine Syrup (100ml each).
According to Balogun, the driver of the vehicle attempted to evade Customs operatives when flagged down but eventually stopped, abandoned the truck, and fled into nearby bushland. A thorough search later revealed the drugs were cleverly concealed among legitimate goods to evade detection.
He emphasised that the interception highlights the Service’s unwavering commitment to combating the smuggling of prohibited substances such as Tramadol and Codeine, which continue to fuel drug abuse and criminal activities nationwide.
Balogun also issued a stern warning to smugglers and criminal networks to desist from illegal trade, noting that the NCS will continue to deploy intelligence-driven strategies to protect public health and national security.
The seized items remain in custody as investigations intensify to track down and apprehend those behind the shipment.