The Federal Operations Unit Zone C, with headquarters in Owerri, of the Nigeria Customs Service has handed over a large consignment of seized illicit drugs and highly controlled substances comprising Tramadol, Cannabis Sativa, also called Indian Hemp, Colos, Scottish Loud, high potent Barcadin Codeine syrup and Ghanaian loud, among several others valued at N2.63billion to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency NDLEA.

Details of the seized consignment include 1, 126, 060 tablets of Tramadol, 21,245 bottles of Barcadin Codeine syrups, 666 sacks of Cannabis Sativa, 19 wraps of cannabis sativa, three (3) wraps of Scottish loud, 11 wraps of Ghanaian loud, and five (5) wraps of Colos and other controlled substances with a Duty Paid Value DPV, of N2.63.

Speaking at the official handover ceremony of the consignment in Owerri, the Imo State Capital, Thursday, Head of the FOU Zone C, Comptroller Bashir Balogun noted that the handover was to enable the Agency undertake further necessary action in line with its statutory mandate.

According to him, the event also signposts the unwavering commitment of the Nigeria Customs Service in safeguarding Nigeria and Nigerians from the dangers posed by the illegal importation of illicit drugs and other highly controlled substances.

He further disclosed that the seized items were intercepted through a strategic credible intelligence deployment, diligent surveillance, and a high level of professionalism of the officers and men of the Unit, who remain resolute in the discharge of their statutory responsibilities.

“Today’s event underscores the unwavering commitment of the Nigeria Customs Service in safeguarding our nation from the dangers posed by illicit drugs and highly controlled substances.

“The misuse and illegal distribution of Tramadol, Codeine based syrups, and Cannabis Sativa have continued to pose a serious threat to public health, particularly among our youth and National Security.

“These substances, when abused, contribute to addiction, high-profile criminal activities, and social instability. As a Service, we recognise the grave implications and remain fully committed to combating this menace at all levels in line with the Comptroller General’s policy thrust on Consolidation, Collaboration, and Innovation”, Comptroller Balogun said.

He attributed the Unit’s several breakthroughs in anti-smuggling activities largely to teamwork and effective collaborative engagement with security agencies including the NDLEA and other sister agencies to achieve a common national goal.

The Comptroller noted that the NDLEA, as the lead agency in drug control and enforcement, plays a critical role in ensuring that these seized items are kept out of unregulated circulation.

He said: “This handover, therefore, is not just a procedural exercise; it is a demonstration of strong inter-agency synergy and a shared resolve to rid our society of harmful, highly controlled drugs and illicit substances. It also sends a clear message to those involved in illicit drug trafficking that their activities will not go unchecked.”

He thanked the Comptroller General if the Service, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR for his support without which these seizures would not have been possible. He also commended the officers and men of the Unit for their vigilance, dedication, and integrity, while appreciating the continued cooperation of the NDLEA and other critical stakeholders in our collective efforts to secure the nation.

Similarly, he urged the members of the public to remain vigilant and continue to support law enforcement agencies by providing timely and useful information.