The Nigeria Customs Service has seized 248,500 tablets of Tramadol Hydrochloride (250mg) valued at about N273.35 million in Yobe State.
The Controller of the Federal Operations Unit, Zone D, Bauchi, Abdullahi Ka’ila, disclosed this on Monday during a press briefing, stating that the operation followed credible intelligence and coordinated surveillance.
According to him, the seizure was made after security operatives received information about a suspected movement of a large quantity of tramadol through illegal routes in Gumsi Village, Nguru Local Government Area of Yobe State.
“Based on credible intelligence, our officers launched a carefully planned covert operation with surveillance teams deployed to the area,” Ka’ila said.
“During the operation, the team intercepted 248,500 tablets of Tramadol Hydrochloride (250mg), a controlled substance with an estimated street value of N273,350,000.”
He explained that the successful operation disrupted the activities of a major drug trafficking syndicate believed to have links extending beyond Nigeria to neighbouring countries and international markets.
Ka’ila added that the suspect transporting the drugs fled into nearby bushes after sighting Customs patrol vehicles.
He noted that the interception would contribute significantly to ongoing efforts to curb drug abuse, especially among vulnerable groups such as youths and students.
“By intercepting this consignment, the Nigeria Customs Service has not only reduced the circulation of illicit tramadol but has also strengthened national security by cutting off potential funding sources for organised criminal networks,” he stated.
The Customs controller further explained that the seizure would help prevent revenue losses associated with illegal imports while protecting legitimate pharmaceutical businesses from unfair competition and counterfeit products.
Ka’ila said the service would continue to collaborate with other law enforcement agencies, including the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, to combat drug trafficking.
“We will also intensify public awareness and community engagement to encourage citizens to report suspicious activities within their communities,” he added.
He commended the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, and the service’s management team for their support and leadership in strengthening intelligence-led operations.
Ka’ila urged community leaders, security agencies, and the general public to remain vigilant and support ongoing efforts to tackle drug trafficking and abuse across the country.
