The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted a significant consignment of illicit drugs valued at N18 million from suspected smugglers at the Mfum Border in Cross River State.
This seizure, conducted by the Cross River/Calabar Free Trade Zone and Akwa Ibom Area Command, involved 659 units of controlled pharmaceutical substances, which have now been handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation and prosecution.
The intercepted items include:
- 216 units of Pethidine 100mg
- 216 units of Morphine Sulphate
- 108 units of Fentanyl 50mg
- 37 packets of Phenobarbital
- 37 units of Sodium Sterop
- 33 units of Midazolam Mylan
- 26 units of Sodium Injectables
During the official handover at the NCS Command Headquarters in Calabar, Area Comptroller Gabriel Ogbonna praised his officers for their vigilance, emphasizing that the operation highlights the strong partnership between the NCS and NDLEA. He stated that this success serves as a learning opportunity for younger officers, showcasing the value of inter-agency collaboration.
Rachael Umebuali, the NDLEA Commander in Cross River State, expressed gratitude for the Customs’ support, noting that such cooperation enhances their effectiveness in combating drug trafficking.
Authorities are currently investigating to identify those responsible for the smuggling operation.
