KATSINA, Nigeria – The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) in Katsina has seized illicit drugs worth more than ₦692 million in what officials describe as the command’s largest-ever bust.
Area Controller, Comptroller Abba Aji Idris, told journalists on Wednesday that the drugs were concealed in two private vehicles attempting to evade security checks near the Kongolam border. One suspect was arrested and is set for prosecution following preliminary investigations.
“This is the largest seizure in the history of this command,” Idris declared, showcasing the confiscated drugs. “If these substances had entered circulation, millions of Nigerians, particularly the youth, would have been at serious health risk.”
The consignment included 14 cartons of Tramadol valued at ₦28 million, Furosemide-based capsules—popularly abused as “Fragbaling”—worth ₦650 million, and cannabis estimated at ₦14 million.
According to Idris, smugglers had adopted sophisticated concealment tactics, disguising vehicles to appear ordinary. He assured that customs officers would intensify surveillance and checks across border routes.
The Comptroller praised his officers’ vigilance and called for collaboration with border communities. “We urge residents to share intelligence that can help us curb smuggling and protect public health,” he said.
Analysts warn that drug trafficking remains a major driver of insecurity across Nigeria, fueling organised crime and health crises.
He urged border communities to collaborate with the service by providing intelligence that could help curb smuggling.
