Customs hands over N2.6bn worth of seized drugs to NDLEA in Imo

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit, Zone C, Owerri, has handed over a large consignment of seized illicit and controlled drugs valued at N2.6bn to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

The handover, which took place on Friday in Imo State, was disclosed in a statement made available to journalists.

According to the NCS, the confiscated items include tramadol, codeine-based syrups, cannabis sativa, and other prohibited substances intercepted during operations by the unit.

Speaking at the event, the Customs Area Controller, Bishir Balogun, said the move reflects the service’s continued commitment to protecting the country from the dangers of illegal drugs.

He explained that the seizures were made possible through intelligence gathering, surveillance, and the professionalism of officers.

Balogun revealed that the items handed over comprised 1,126,060 tramadol tablets, 21,245 bottles of codeine syrup, 685 sacks of cannabis sativa, and several wraps of other illicit drugs, including Scottish loud, Ghanaian loud, and Colos, with a duty-paid value of N2.638bn.

He noted that the exercise highlights strong collaboration between security agencies and sends a clear warning to drug traffickers that their activities will not go unchallenged.

Balogun emphasised the critical role of the NDLEA as the lead agency responsible for drug enforcement, ensuring that such substances are kept out of circulation.

He also warned that the abuse of drugs such as tramadol and codeine poses serious risks to public health, especially among young people, and contributes to crime and social instability.

The Customs boss commended his officers for their dedication and urged members of the public to support security agencies with credible information to help curb drug trafficking across the country.