In a major breakthrough, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Apapa Port Command has intercepted a shipment of illicit drugs valued at N1,183,915,500.
The operation, which involved four 40ft containers, uncovered a total of 236,783 bottles of cough syrup containing codeine and barkadin, packed in 2,174 cartons across two terminals.
According to Comptroller Babatunde Olomu, the Customs Area Controller, the seizures highlight the Command’s zero-tolerance for smuggling and illicit trade. Three of the containers were intercepted at APM Terminals, while the fourth was seized at Kachicares Bonded Terminal.
On October 11, 2024, during a joint examination of container MRKU0377493, officers found 34,800 bottles of expired CSP cough syrup, concealed in 174 cartons. Further inspections the same day uncovered 39,700 bottles of DSP cough syrup in container TGBU8886020.
Additional seizures were made on October 15, 2024. Container TCKU6800526, initially declared as carrying essential goods, was found to contain 19 cartons of CSJ cough syrup with codeine. At Kachicares Resources Terminal, container SUDU8579006, declared to hold kitchenware, was discovered to house 1,584 cartons of Barcadin cough syrup and 83 loose bottles.
Customs Comptroller Olomu reiterated the Command’s unwavering dedication to facilitating legitimate trade while strictly enforcing anti-smuggling operations. “Our officers, using a combination of intelligence, technology, and experience, are determined to stop all illegal imports. I advise those involved in unlawful trade to steer clear of Apapa Port,” Olomu warned.
The abuse of codeine, which was banned by the federal government in 2018, has been linked to various social problems, including addiction, criminal tendencies, and mental health issues, particularly among youths. The latest seizures underscore the importance of combating the smuggling of these banned substances, which pose a significant threat to the well-being of society.
Further investigations are ongoing to apprehend those responsible for the smuggling attempt.
For more updates on Nigeria Customs Service story, visit fasnewsng.com.
By Fikunmi Sokoya
Thinker Pedia I truly appreciate your technique of writing a blog. I added it to my bookmark site list and will