The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, has intercepted a staggering ₦9.3 billion worth of pharmaceutical opioids in Rivers State, marking one of its largest anti-drug operations in the South-South region to date.
The landmark seizure was carried out during a targeted operation following credible intelligence, leading to the discovery of a major drug distribution syndicate operating within the state. A
ccording to NDLEA officials, the operation, which lasted several hours, uncovered a cache of tramadol and other banned pharmaceutical products intended for distribution across multiple states.
The intercepted drugs, primarily consisting of tramadol with strengths exceeding the permissible dosage, were stored in a hidden warehouse in Port Harcourt and packaged in commercial quantities.
NDLEA spokesperson Femi Babafemi confirmed that the raid was executed with precision, resulting in the confiscation of hundreds of cartons of illicit drugs.
“This seizure represents a significant breakthrough in our fight against drug trafficking and abuse,” Babafemi said. “The total street value of the drugs is estimated at over ₦9.3 billion, which gives a sense of the scale of the illegal trade we are combating.”
The agency revealed that the warehouse was discovered through inter-agency collaboration and surveillance efforts, with assistance from community informants and local law enforcement.
At least three suspects have been arrested in connection with the operation and are currently being held for interrogation. Further investigations are underway to determine the full network of operatives behind the distribution ring.
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NDLEA Chairman/Chief Executive, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd), commended the Rivers State command for their vigilance and tactical execution of the raid. He also reiterated the agency’s commitment to aggressively tackling the influx of narcotic and psychotropic substances into the country.
“This operation is not only a blow to drug traffickers but also a win for public health and national security,” Marwa stated. “We are committed to dismantling these criminal networks and ensuring that dangerous drugs do not reach our streets or our youths.”
He also called on community leaders, religious institutions, and local governments to continue supporting the agency by reporting suspicious activities and promoting anti-drug campaigns at the grassroots level.
The seizure underscores the growing concern over the spread of pharmaceutical opioids in Nigeria, particularly tramadol, which has become widely abused among young people. Health professionals have warned that excessive consumption of such substances can lead to addiction, mental health disorders, and death.
As the NDLEA continues its war against drug trafficking, the agency emphasized that no region will be exempt from scrutiny and enforcement. With this latest seizure in Rivers, the NDLEA has sent a clear signal to traffickers that their operations will be met with swift and forceful response.
NAN
