Customs FOU Zone ‘C’ Intercepts Tramadol, Codeine Worth N1.056bn in Edo State

The Nigeria Customs Service Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone C, Owerri, has announced a major breakthrough in the fight against illicit drug trafficking after its operatives intercepted over one million tablets of Tramadol and 10,000 bottles of Barcadin Codeine syrup along the Okada/Ofosu Expressway in Benin City, Edo State.

Comptroller Bishir Balogun, who disclosed the development, said the seizure was made on March 15, 2026, through strategic intelligence and coordinated enforcement.

The seized consignment, with a total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N1,056,000,000, comprised 1,025,000 Tramadol tablets and 10,000 bottles of Barcadin Codeine Syrup of 100ml each.

When flagged down by operatives, the driver initially attempted to evade officers but eventually pulled over, abandoned the vehicle, and fled into nearby bushland. A subsequent search of the truck revealed the drugs cleverly concealed among legitimate goods to evade detection.

Balogun stressed that the operation underscores the Service’s commitment to curbing the smuggling of prohibited substances such as Tramadol and Codeine, which he said fuel drug addiction and crime across the country.

He warned smugglers and criminal networks to abandon their illegal activities, noting that the Nigeria Customs Service would continue deploying intelligence-led strategies to safeguard public health and national security.

The seized consignment is in custody, with investigations ongoing to apprehend those responsible.