The Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) Sokoto/Zamfara Area Command has handed over illicit drugs worth N99.9 million to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Sokoto.

The Customs Area Comptroller, Mr. Aliyu Musa-Ndako, presented the drugs, with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N99.9 million to the State Commander of NDLEA, Mr. Mustapha Gidado, on Monday in Sokoto.

Musa-Ndako said that an NCS patrol team had intercepted the seized items after they were abandoned by an unknown person along Maidoro Village on the Sokoto-Illela Road.

He added that the illicit drugs comprised 182 cartons of CST Cough Syrup containing codeine and NASACAM Piroxicam capsules, which were suspected to have been smuggled into the country.

According to him, the presentation was part of the directive of the Comptroller-General (C-G) of NCS, Mr. Bashir Adewale, to hand over illicit pharmaceutical products to NDLEA.

The area comptroller explained that the handover was not merely procedural but a decisive step to enable the agency to take immediate action.

“This is in line with the recent understanding reached at the last CGC Conference in Abuja.

“This seizure demonstrates our commitment to protecting the nation from the scourge of illicit drugs.

“I reiterate NCS’s commitment to an intelligent network and continued harmonious synergy to strengthen service delivery and improve performance,” the area comptroller said.

Responding, the NDLEA commander commended the NCS for the success, saying it demonstrated their collective efforts and achievements and translated into improved synergy and performance among enforcement agencies.

Gidado noted that his agency looked forward to more collaboration with the NCS in intercepting and seizing imported unwholesome food items, as well as adulterated and counterfeit drugs. (NAN)