The Acting Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi has announced that the Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone A of the Nigeria Customs Service successfully intercepted a significant haul of 299 cartons of codeine syrup valued at N95 million in Ogun State’s Ijebu-Ode area.
During a press briefing held at the unit’s office in Ikeja Lagos, Adeniyi emphasized the Service’s ongoing commitment to combating the illicit drug trade within the country’s borders. He underscored the NCS’s determination to eradicate the menace of drug trafficking, reflecting its dedication to safeguarding society and the well-being of citizens.
He said the recent interception occurred when officers from the Federal Operating Unit Zone A, acting on credible intelligence, stopped a DAF truck near the Ijebu-Ode Junction. A subsequent inspection of the vehicle revealed that it concealed 299 cartons of codeine syrup along the Lagos/Ibadan Expressway.
Adeniyi noted that the seizure highlights the pressing danger posed by unrestricted access to dangerous drugs, particularly codeine syrup, which has become a controlled item due to its rampant misuse by young individuals. The widespread abuse and illicit distribution of codeine-containing medications have led to severe security, public health, and societal concerns, including a surge in addiction and adverse health effects.
He said to address these challenges, regulatory measures have been implemented to limit codeine syrup’s availability and access.
Adeniyi emphasized the importance of addressing this issue as part of broader efforts to protect public health and well-being, stating that the NCS will continue collaborating with relevant government agencies to curb the menace and safeguard future generations.
Adeniyi also touched on the persistent issue of smuggling, particularly of rice and premium motor spirit (PMS). He highlighted how these smuggling activities undermine revenue and food security, despite efforts to curb them.
He acknowledged the success of NCS officers in multiple operations, resulting in the seizure of foreign parboiled rice and intercepted attempts to smuggle PMS.
The Acting Comptroller General further highlighted various items seized in recent weeks, including second-hand clothing, used shoes, foreign frozen poultry products, rugs, vehicles, and used tires. These seizures reflect the NCS’s unwavering commitment to enforce the law and protect citizens’ lives. Adeniyi pointed out that codeine syrup abuse, primarily by young individuals, has dire consequences such as addiction, anxiety, depression, memory loss, and organ damage.
Addressing the issue of used tires, Adeniyi explained how the NCS’s efforts to enforce import prohibition lists extend to mitigating auto crashes caused by smuggled used tires. Smuggled tires are often squeezed, compressed, and concealed, compromising their quality and safety.
