The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has made a significant breakthrough in the fight against drug smuggling with the interception of a large consignment of illicit pharmaceutical substances valued at approximately N18 million. The seizure took place at the Mfum Border in Cross River State and involved a well-coordinated operation by officers of the Cross River/Calabar Free Trade Zone and Akwa Ibom Area Command of the NCS.
According to official reports, a total of 659 units of controlled and highly regulated pharmaceutical products were confiscated from suspected smugglers attempting to illegally bring the substances into Nigeria. The intercepted drugs include a range of powerful opioids and sedatives, commonly abused and associated with serious public health risks.
A breakdown of the seized items includes 216 units each of Pethidine 100mg and Morphine Sulphate, both potent pain-relieving medications; 108 units of Fentanyl 50mm, an extremely strong synthetic opioid; 37 packets of Phenobarbital, a medication used to control seizures and anxiety; 37 units of Sodium Sterop; 33 units of Midazolam Mylan, a sedative often used before surgeries; and 26 units of Sodium Injectables. These substances are strictly regulated due to their potential for abuse and addiction.
The illicit consignment has since been handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation and prosecution. The official handover ceremony took place at the NCS Command Headquarters in Calabar, where officers from both agencies reaffirmed their commitment to joint efforts in securing the nation�s borders and tackling the menace of drug trafficking.
Speaking during the handover, the Area Comptroller of the Cross River/Calabar Free Trade Zone and Akwa Ibom Area Command, Gabriel Ogbonna, praised the vigilance, professionalism, and swift response of his officers. He described the seizure as a clear demonstration of the robust partnership between the NCS and the NDLEA.
�On behalf of the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service, I officially hand over these seized items to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency,� Comptroller Ogbonna said. �This operation is more than just a successful interception�it serves as a vital training experience for our younger officers and underscores the critical value of inter-agency collaboration in the service of our nation.�
Ogbonna also emphasized that the growing synergy between Customs and the NDLEA reflects a unified and determined effort to strengthen national security and protect Nigerians from the harmful effects of drug abuse and trafficking.
In response, the NDLEA Commander for Cross River State, Rachael Umebuali, expressed her agency�s deep appreciation for the continued support and cooperation from the Nigeria Customs Service. She noted that joint operations like these are essential in curbing the activities of drug traffickers and ensuring the safety of communities.
�This kind of collaboration not only enhances our operational capabilities but also ensures that our interventions are far-reaching and impactful,� Commander Umebuali stated. �We look forward to deepening this partnership even further in the fight against drug trafficking and abuse.�
Authorities have confirmed that investigations are currently ongoing to identify and apprehend the individuals behind the smuggling attempt. Officials from both agencies pledged to continue their surveillance and enforcement activities at Nigeria�s borders to deter future occurrences.
