The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun Area 1 Command, has handed over illicit drugs worth N117.59 million to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

The command’s comptroller, James Ojo, disclosed this during the handing over of the drugs to Olusegun Adeyeye, the commander of NDLEA, Idiroko Special Area Command in Abeokuta, Ogun, on Friday.

Mr Ojo said the customs handed over the seized cannabis and tramadol tablets to the NDLEA for further investigation in line with the standard operating procedures and interagency collaboration.

He said the illicit drugs were seized in various strategic locations between January and November 21, 2024, in Ogun State.

Mr Ojo added that the illicit drugs were abandoned at various locations, including the Abeokuta axis, the Agbawo/Igankoto area of Yewa North Local Government Area, and the Imeko Afton axis.

Mr Ojo said the seizure of the cannabis sativa and tramaling tablets, another brand of tramadol, was made possible through credible intelligence and strategic operations of the customs personnel.

“The successful interception of these dangerous substances would not have been possible without the robust collaboration and support from our intelligence units, local informants, and sister agencies.

“These landmark operations are a testament to the unwavering dedication of the NCS to safeguard the health and well-being of our citizens and uphold the rule of law,” he said.

He said the seizures comprised 403 sacks and 6,504 parcels, weighing 7,217.7 kg and 362 packs of tramaling tablets of 225 mg each, with a total duty paid value of N117,587,405,00.

Mr Ojo described the rate of illicit drug smuggling in recent times as worrisome.

He said this underscores the severity of drug trafficking within the borders.

“Between October 13 and November 12 alone, operatives intercepted a total of 1,373 parcels of cannabis sativa, weighing 1,337 kg and 362 packs of tramaling tablets of 225 mg each,” he said.

Mr Ojo said the seizures had disrupted the supply chain of illicit drugs, thereby mitigating the risks those substances posed to the youth, families, and communities.

He lauded the synergy between its command, security agencies, and other stakeholders that led to the remarkable achievements.

Mr Ojo also commended the comptroller general of NCS for creating an enabling environment for the command to succeed.

Responding, Mr Adeyeye applauded the customs for achieving the feat.

Mr Adeyeye pledged to continue to collaborate with the customs to fight against illicit trade and drug trafficking in the state.

(NAN)