Public Health Alert: Customs Intercept Fake Drugs Worth N19.6 Million In Sokoto Raid

Public Health Alert: Customs Intercept Fake Drugs Worth N19.6 Million In Sokoto

In a significant operation, the Nigerian Customs Service, Sector 4 joint border patrol, has thwarted an attempt to smuggle counterfeit drugs along the Kajiji-Sokoto road, seizing a cache with a duty-paid value amounting to N19.6 million…..READ ALSO NDLEA Takes Down Insurgents’ Drug Network, Seizes 7.6 Tons Of Illicit Drugs

The interception, which included immune-enhancing drugs masquerading as genuine pharmaceuticals, underscores the vigilant efforts of the customs authorities in safeguarding public health.

Addressing the media on Thursday, the Coordinator of the Joint Team, Comptroller Kolapo Oladeji, revealed that the seizure was prompted by actionable intelligence.

“These fake drugs pose a grave threat to the well-being of our citizens. They bear counterfeit NAFDAC registration numbers and expiration dates, deceiving unsuspecting consumers and endangering lives,” remarked Oladeji.

The joint border patrol team’s proactive measures also extended to intercepting trucks laden with food items destined for the Niger Republic via a border crossing in Kebbi State. This move comes amidst heightened concerns over food scarcity and price inflation exacerbated by smuggling activities.

Oladeji reiterated the team’s unwavering commitment to curbing food smuggling, emphasizing the detrimental impact of such illicit practices on the nation’s economy and food security.

“In the face of rising food prices and hunger, the nefarious actions of a few unscrupulous individuals to profit at the expense of our nation’s well-being will not be tolerated,” declared Oladeji. “We will pursue and apprehend those involved in these reprehensible acts and ensure they face the full force of the law.”

In addition to the counterfeit drug seizure, the joint border patrol team also intercepted 60 jerry cans of petrol along the Illela border, swiftly auctioning them off to the public as part of their ongoing efforts to enforce border security and combat smuggling activities.