The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), in collaboration with authorities in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has foiled an attempt to smuggle a large consignment of Tap Tramadol 250mg into Nigeria through the Murtala Muhammed Area Command (MMAC) in Lagos.
The illicit shipment was intercepted through intelligence-led operations and formally handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) on Thursday, June 11, 2026, for further investigation and possible prosecution of those connected to the drug trafficking attempt.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, the Customs Area Controller of the Murtala Muhammed Area Command, Comptroller Godwin Otunla, described the seizure as another significant breakthrough in the Nigeria Customs Service’s ongoing campaign against the trafficking of controlled substances and other prohibited items entering the country.
Otunla said the successful interception underscores the Service’s commitment to protecting public health and strengthening national security through proactive intelligence gathering and effective enforcement operations.
According to him, the operation was made possible by timely intelligence and the professionalism of officers attached to the Special WILD Office of the NCS Intelligence Unit. He commended the officers involved for their dedication, vigilance and teamwork, which ensured that the shipment was intercepted before it could reach criminal networks.
The Customs Area Controller also highlighted the critical role played by international cooperation in combating transnational crimes. He specifically acknowledged the support provided by UAE Customs authorities, noting that their technical assistance was crucial in identifying and intercepting the illegal consignment.
“Their assistance was instrumental in identifying and intercepting this illegal shipment, further demonstrating the importance of international collaboration in the fight against transnational crime,” Otunla stated.
The seizure comes amid intensified efforts by Nigerian authorities to curb the influx of illicit drugs into the country, particularly Tramadol, which has been linked to rising cases of substance abuse, criminal activities and public health concerns.
Following the interception, the recovered consignment was transferred to the NDLEA, which is expected to deepen investigations into the smuggling network behind the shipment and determine its intended destination.
Reaffirming the agency’s resolve, Otunla said the Nigeria Customs Service would continue to strengthen intelligence-driven operations and partnerships with both local and international stakeholders to combat smuggling and other cross-border crimes.
He stressed that the Service remains committed to enhancing inter-agency cooperation and deploying modern enforcement strategies to safeguard Nigeria’s borders and protect citizens from the dangers posed by illicit drugs and other contraband.
The latest seizure highlights growing collaboration between Nigerian and international law enforcement agencies in disrupting drug trafficking routes and dismantling criminal networks operating across borders.
