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How customs intercept N18m drugs from Cross River smugglers

By Asuquo Cletus

As part of an intensified crackdown on illicit trans-border activities, the Nigerian Customs Service (NIS), has seized consignment of hard drugs valued at N18 million, smuggled into the state by suspected criminal gangs.

The exercise, which occurred at the Mfum Border, was successfully carried out by the combined efforts of the Cross River/Calabar Free Trade Zone and the Akwa Ibom Area Command.

The intercepted drugs include 216 units of Pethidine 100mg, 216 units of Morphine Sulphate, 37 packets of Phenobarbital, 37 units of Sodium Sterop, 108 units of Fentanyl 50mm, 33 units of Midazolam Mylan, and 26 units of Sodium Injectables.

Meanwhile, the recovered substances were handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation and prosecution.

At the official handover ceremony held at the NCS Command Headquarters in Calabar on Wednesday, the Area Comptroller, Gabriel Ogbonna, commended the vigilance and dedication of his officers, emphasizing that the operation was a reflection of growing synergy between Customs and the NDLEA.

“On behalf of the Comptroller General of the NCS, I hereby hand over these items to the NDLEA. This handover is in accordance with the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between our agencies,” Ogbonna stated.

He added, “Today’s event is not just about the seizure it is a learning point for younger officers in both agencies to understand the importance of collaboration. Together, we leverage each other’s strengths to promote national security and development.”

Receiving the items, the Commander of the National Drug Law Agency in Cross River State, Rachael Umebuali, applauded the NCS for its continued support and inter-agency cooperation. She noted that such efforts enhance the operational efficiency of both organizations.

“We appreciate this gesture and partnership. This collaboration not only strengthens our operational capacity but also ensures our service to Nigerians is effective and impactful,” she said.

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