NAFDAC Officials Attacked By Touts And Drug Hawkers In Abuja

NAFDAC Officials Attacked By Touts And Drug Hawkers In Abuja

On February 12, 2024, members of the Investigation and Enforcement Directorate of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) faced a violent confrontation in Abuja…..READ ALSO Workers Unite: Labour Union’s Battle NAFDAC’s Amid Sachet Alcohol Ban

Accompanied by mobile police, they were conducting a raid on counterfeit drug operations at the Area One motor park when they were assaulted by enraged drug hawkers and touts.

During the operation, these individuals began hurling stones and other dangerous objects at the NAFDAC team and journalists present. The situation escalated to the point where tear gas had to be deployed, and shots were fired into the air by the mobile police to disperse the attackers. Fortunately, the NAFDAC team and journalists managed to escape the scene, albeit with two NAFDAC vehicles being vandalized in the process.

Umar Suleiman, Assistant Chief Regulatory Officer of the Investigation and Enforcement Directorate, Federal Task Force, NAFDAC, explained that the raid was prompted by intelligence received from the Department of State Security regarding illicit activities at the motor park.

Suleiman expressed dismay at the level of aggression encountered, noting that such attacks were unfortunately not uncommon for the enforcement department. He emphasized the necessity of being accompanied by armed security personnel due to the risks involved.

Despite the challenges faced, the raid resulted in the seizure of counterfeit drugs worth approximately N5 million. Among the confiscated items were controlled substances like Rohypnol, Dizapam, Tramadol (500mg and 225mg), Cocodamol, and aphrodisiacs

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