Customs seize N1.05bn Tramadol haul as driver flees into bush

The Nigeria Customs Service has intercepted tramadol capsules and other pharmaceutical products valued at N1.05 billion along the Okada/Ofosu Expressway in Benin, Edo State.

Customs Area Controller, FOU Zone C, Owerri, Bishir Balogun, said the seizure followed intelligence-driven operations by operatives of the unit.

He said the contraband was discovered in a truck whose driver fled into a nearby bush after attempting to evade arrest.

Balogun said a search revealed the drugs were concealed among legitimate goods to avoid detection, with a Duty Paid Value of N1.05 billion.

He noted that substances such as tramadol and codeine fuel drug abuse and crime, warning smugglers to desist.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the seized items remain in custody, while investigations are ongoing to track those behind the shipment.