Customs Seizes N1.056bn Drugs in Edo State Operation

On March 15, 2026, the Nigeria Customs Service's Federal Operations Unit Zone C, Owerri, intercepted a significant drug haul valued at N1.056 billion along the Okada Ofosu Expressway in Benin City, Edo State. The operation resulted in the seizure of two million tramadol tablets and 10,000 bottles of Barcadin codeine syrup, each containing 100ml.

Bashir Balogun, the Customs Area Control officer, described the operation as a major breakthrough in the fight against illicit drug trafficking. The driver of the truck attempted to evade officers but abandoned the vehicle and fled into nearby bushland.

A subsequent search revealed the drugs cleverly concealed among legitimate goods. Balogun emphasized the service's unwavering commitment to curbing the smuggling of prohibited substances, which contribute to drug addiction and crime nationwide.

He warned smugglers and criminal networks to abandon their illegal activities and stated that the service would continue to deploy intelligence-led strategies to safeguard public health and national security. The seized consignments are currently under custody, and investigations are underway to apprehend those responsible.