BY FUNMI ALUKO

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has recorded a significant victory in its ongoing war against illicit drug trafficking, following the interception of a massive consignment of prohibited substances along the Okada/Ofosu Expressway in Benin City, Edo State.

According to Comptroller Bishir Balogun, Controller, Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone C, Owerri, operatives acting on strategic intelligence intercepted a truck on March 15, 2026, carrying over 1,025,000 tablets of Tramadol and 10,000 bottles of Barcadin Codeine syrup (100ml each). The haul, cleverly concealed among legitimate goods, was valued at ₦1.056 billion in Duty Paid Value (DPV).

When flagged down, the truck driver attempted to evade arrest, eventually abandoning the vehicle and fleeing into nearby bushland. A thorough search of the truck revealed the concealed drugs, highlighting the sophisticated methods smugglers employ to bypass law enforcement.

Comptroller Balogun emphasized that the operation reflects the Service’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding public health and national security. He warned criminal networks to desist from trafficking substances such as Tramadol and Codeine, which are widely abused and linked to rising cases of addiction and crime across Nigeria.

“This seizure is a clear message to smugglers: the Nigeria Customs Service will continue to deploy intelligence-led strategies to dismantle illegal supply chains and protect our communities,” Balogun stated.The seized consignment is currently in custody, with investigations underway to track down the fleeing suspects and dismantle the network behind the shipment. Authorities reaffirmed their determination to ensure that those responsible face justice.