Onne Customs seizes 7 containers of illicit pharmaceuticals worth N11.2bn, generates over N312bn

By Ezurike Ugochukwu

The Onne Area 2 Command of the Nigerian Customs Service(NCS) has refused to allow importers of illicit goods any foothold as it has again reported seizure of seven 40 feet containers containing codeine drugs and others worth N11.2 billion.

Comptroller Mohammed Babandede while addressing newsmen in Port Harcourt today Thursday regretted that saboteurs have continued to undermining the importation processes, guideline and procedures.
According to him, the seven containers were found to be containing, 1,054,400 bottles of different cough syrup codeine (100ml), 9,100 pieces of Chilly.

Other items found in the containers were 2,175,000 tablets of Hyergra tablets (200mg),1,300,000 tablets of Really Extra Diclofenac Pain Relief tablets (50mg) all estimated to value ₦11,200,000,000.

He recalled the visit of the Comptroller General Adewale Adeniyi on the 1st of July during which he spoke of determination of the command to secure nation’s borders and ensure public safety.

Stating that in collaboration with National Drug law Enforcement Agency(NDLEA) Onne Port Chapter the containers were Identified, positioned and jointly examined in the presence of other sister agencies.

He said, “We wish to reiterate the resolve of the Nigeria Customs Service, Area 2 Command, Onne under the present Comptroller General of Customs not to tolerate any action that compromises the economy and security of our beloved nation.”
Given, the command he said has in the first six months of this year generated revenue worth ₦312,094,367,124.58.

This generated revenue he said translate to 50.5 percent of the annual target given to the Command.
Babandede said, “As at this morning the Command has generated ₦48,056,806,692.00 in the month of July and we still have five working days left in the month.
“We are determined to increase our revenue profile and at the same time working tirelessly in protecting public health and safety.”
He however stated, “in the face of challenging security situation in the Country, the Area 2 Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has continue to step up its security function in the area of policing our Sea Port in such a way that those who do not wish our nation well will not have their way.”