Uche Cecil Izuora
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone ‘C’, Owerri, has recorded another major breakthrough in its anti-smuggling operations, handing over illicit drugs worth over N2.6 billion to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
Speaking at the hand over ceremony at the FOU, Zone C, headquarters, in owerri on Thursday, 23 April 2026, the Comptroller of the Unit, Bishir Balogun, described the seizure as a testament to the Service’s sustained commitment to protecting public health and national security.
“Today’s handover underscores our unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation from the dangers posed by illicit drugs and highly controlled substances”, Balogun said.
He disclosed that the seizures were made through credible intelligence, strategic surveillance, and the dedication of officers of the Unit.
The items handed over included 1,126,060 Tramadol tablets, 21,245 bottles of codeine-based syrup, and 666 sacks of cannabis sativa, 19 wraps of cannabis sativa, 11 wraps of Ghanaian loud, three wraps of Scottish loud, alongside five wraps of Colos and other controlled drugs.
Comptroller Balogun warned that the abuse and illegal distribution of such substances continue to pose grave risks, particularly to young people and the stability of society.
“These substances, when abused, contribute to addiction, criminal activities, and social instability. As a Service, we remain fully committed to combating this menace at all levels”, he stated.
The Comptroller commended officers of the Unit for their vigilance and professionalism, while also appreciating the continued collaboration with the NDLEA and other stakeholders.
He further called on members of the public to support law enforcement agencies with timely and credible information to help build a safer and healthier society.
The seized drugs, with a Duty Paid Value of N2,638,102,565, were officially handed over to the NDLEA for further investigation and necessary action in line with its statutory mandate.