The Katsina Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has made a major breakthrough in its anti-smuggling operations, seizing illicit drugs valued at approximately ₦690 million.
The bust involved two vehicles intercepted while attempting to transport the contraband across state borders.
During a press briefing in Katsina on Tuesday, the State Controller, Mr. Idriss Abba-Aji, revealed that the seizures included: 14 cartons of Tramadol, estimated at ₦650 million, Fragbaline capsules, worth ₦28 million, and Cannabis sativa, valued at ₦15 million.
The operations were carried out over a two-week period, with the drugs cleverly concealed in vehicles designed to appear ordinary.
Abba-Aji emphasized the growing trend of traffickers using deceptive tactics to evade detection, noting that some vehicles were made to look like they were transporting dignitaries.
“Drug traffickers will never use lorries or open vehicles. They conceal drugs inside vehicles designed to appear ordinary,” he stated.
He defended the rigorous vehicle checks conducted by Customs, urging the public to understand the necessity of such measures. According to him, the seizures were made possible through persistent surveillance and a stroke of luck in identifying the suspicious vehicles.
Abba-Aji described the haul as the largest drug seizure in the command’s history, warning that the drugs were likely intended for distribution within Katsina and neighboring states.
He also linked drug abuse to the rising tide of banditry in the region, stressing the importance of intensified enforcement.
One suspect was arrested in connection with the seizure but has since been released on administrative bail pending further investigation.
The command has vowed to continue its crackdown on drug trafficking, reinforcing its commitment to safeguarding public health and regional security.
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