February 13, 2025

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Customs intercepts 299 cartons of codeine syrup, other smuggled goods

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) said it has intercepted 299 cartons of codeine syrup, 4, 252 bags of foreign parboiled rice and 5,600 litres of premium motor spirit among other contraband goods in its various anti smuggling operations in Ogun, Oyo, Lagos and Ekiti states.

Acting Comptroller General of Customs, Wale Adeniyi, who showcased the seized items to newsmen in Ikeja on Wednesday said operatives of the Federal Operations Unit, Zone A, acting on credible intelligence had flagged down a DAF truck close to Ijebu-Ode Junction on Lagos Ibadan Expressway and an examination of the truck revealed the concealment of 299 cartons of codeine syrup.

Customs intercepts 299 cartons of codeine syrup, other smuggled goods

Adeniyi, who lamented the misuse and illicit distribution of codeine among youths said its abuse have resulted into adverse health and societal challenges.

He, however, assured of the Service committment to combat the illicit trade of drugs within the nation’s borders.

He said, “As part of our unwavering commitment to safeguarding our society and protecting the well-being of our citizens, the NCS has once again demonstrated tts dedication to eradicating the menace of drug trafficking.

“Last week officers of the Federal Operating Unit Zone A, acting on credible intelligence, flagged down a DAF truck close to Ijebu-Ode Junction. An examination of the truck revealed the concealment of 299 cartons of codeine syrup along Lagos/Ibadan Expressway.

“NCS is yet again drawing national attention to the danger posed by unrestricted access to the use dangerous drugs. Codeine syrup is designated as a controlled item due to its rampant abuse by our delinquent youth.

“The misuse and illicit distribution of codeine-containing medications have given rise to grave security and public health concerns, contributing to a surge in addiction, adverse health effects, and societal challenges. In response, regulatory measures have been implemented to curb its availability and unrestricted access.

“This underscores the importance of addressing this issue as part of broader efforts to safeguard public health and well-beingwell-being.

“On our part we will continue to partner with the NDLEA and other relevant government agencies to curb the spread of the menace and protect the future generations of Nigerians.”

Customs intercepts 299 cartons of codeine syrup, other smuggled goods

Adeniyi added that smugglers of rice and premium motor spirit have continued to
compromise the nation’s revenue and sabotage her food security.

According to him, despite the biting effects of fuel subsidy removal on the economy, smugglers still attempt to smuggle PMS across the border.

He noted that the smugglers have met their waterloo in different operations conducted by officers of NCS.

Other items seized in the last 2 weeks by the unit he said include, 291 bales of Second-hand Clothing, 57 Sacks and 4 Jumbo sacks of Used shoes, 486 cartons of foreign frozen poultry products, 190 Pieces of Rugs, 5 Units of Vehicles and 170 pieces of used tyres.

“These seizures are a fallout of our uncompromising position to strictly
enforce the law and protect the lives of our people. The codeine syrup, which is reportedly being abused by mostly young persons in society, is associated with addiction and, in the long-term, results in anxiety, depression, memory loss, and damage to the liver, kidneys and brain. It is pertinent to note that the damaging effects of drugs have led to preventable deaths for consumers taking them outside doctors’ prescriptions.

“The 340 pieces of used tyres seized within the first two weeks of August 2023 by this unit is not only limited to the implementation of import prohibition
lists but also a giant stride to mitigate auto crashes caused by smuggled used tyres.

“These tyres are squeezed, compressed and tucked into themselves for ease of concealment, thereby causing them to crack. They are oftentimes expired, their rigidity and strength compromised. Drivers could experience a blowout or sudden rupture as the steel wire meant to keep the tyres in shape has been disorganised in the course of smuggling.

Adeniyi warned that any investment made into the smuggling business would be a loss because Customs will keep battling smugglers.

“I urge all patriotic Nigerians to continuously support the Nigeria Customs Service with helpful information that will aid our efforts to curb smuggling and arrest suspects,” he said.

 

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