Controller, Federal Operations Unit of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Zone D, Bauchi, Abdullahi Ka’ila, has confirmed his operatives intercepting 248,500 tablets of Tramadol Hydrochloride (250mg), with an approximate street value of N273,350,000.

Ka’ila, who disclosed this while briefing journalists on the seizure at the Zonal Headquarters, Zone D, Bauchi, yesterday, described tramadol as a “powerful controlled substance.”

He said the operation underscores the unwavering commitment of the NCS to safeguarding the health and security of the nation, combating drug trafficking and ensuring strict compliance with national and international laws governing controlled substances.

According to him, in recent years, Nigeria has become a major transit point for various illicit substances, notably Tramadol Hydrochloride, which has emerged as a critical public health concern.

The controller explained that the successful seizure was a result of meticulous intelligence gathering, collaboration with security agencies and proactive surveillance.

“The Unit received credible intelligence indicating the possible movement of a large consignment of tramadol through undercover routes in Gumsi Village, Nguru LGA, Yobe State. Following the intelligence, a covert operation was meticulously planned involving surveillance teams.”

“And during the operation, officers recovered 248,500 tablets of tramadol hydrochloride (250mg), a powerful controlled substance with an approximate street value of N273,350,000. This operation disrupts a major syndicate of illicit tramadol trafficking network, which is believed to have links extending beyond Nigeria into neighbouring countries and international markets,” he added.

Ka’ila said the seizure directly impacts efforts to curb drug abuse, especially among vulnerable populations such as youths and students, adding that it reduces the availability of illicit tramadol in the market, thereby preventing potential health crises and addiction.