NDLEA Seizes Over 7.6 Million Tramadol Pills and 76 Tonnes of Cannabis in Nationwide Crackdown

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has successfully intercepted a massive quantity of illicit substances during coordinated operations across Nigeria, seizing over 7.6 million tramadol pills and 76,273 kilograms of cannabis. The seizures were carried out as part of intensified nationwide raids aimed at curbing drug trafficking, abuse, and distribution, particularly of substances classified as dangerous to public health.

According to the NDLEA, the operations targeted high-risk areas identified through intelligence-led strategies and included major cities, border towns, and transit routes commonly used by traffickers. The agency stated that the raids were meticulously planned and executed, involving collaboration between state commands, local law enforcement, and community informants, ensuring the interception of both small-scale and bulk consignments of narcotics.

Officials disclosed that a significant portion of the seized tramadol pills was concealed in commercial consignments, reflecting sophisticated trafficking methods aimed at bypassing regulatory scrutiny. Cannabis, the bulk of which was intercepted in open-air storage facilities and along transit corridors, constituted a major portion of illegal drug circulation within the country. NDLEA officials emphasized that such quantities represent not only a threat to public health but also a potential source of criminal funding if allowed to reach the streets.

The NDLEA has identified an emerging trend in the trafficking of prescription drugs, particularly tramadol, which is being abused by a growing number of youths across urban and rural areas. Authorities warned that unregulated consumption of such opioids poses severe health risks, including addiction, respiratory complications, and neurological disorders. The agency reiterated its commitment to enforcing national drug laws and working with health agencies to reduce demand and prevent misuse.

A spokesperson for the NDLEA noted that the seizures mark one of the largest hauls in recent years and are expected to significantly disrupt the supply chains of criminal syndicates involved in drug distribution. The agency added that suspects apprehended during the operations are being interrogated and will face prosecution under the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency Act, as well as other relevant legal provisions.

Experts in law enforcement and public health have lauded the operation, highlighting its potential to curtail the flow of illicit drugs and reduce associated social problems such as crime, addiction, and gang violence. Analysts also emphasized that ongoing, intelligence-driven raids are critical to sustaining gains in the fight against drug trafficking, particularly in a country that serves both as a transit and consumption hub for narcotics in West Africa.

Community leaders and civil society organizations have praised the NDLEA’s proactive approach, noting that public awareness campaigns and community engagement are equally important in complementing enforcement activities. Officials stressed that tackling drug abuse requires a multi-pronged strategy, including prevention, rehabilitation, and strict enforcement of laws against trafficking.

The NDLEA further disclosed that the seized substances will undergo proper documentation, inventory, and eventual destruction in accordance with statutory procedures, ensuring they do not re-enter circulation. The agency reaffirmed its resolve to continue nationwide surveillance and operations targeting both traffickers and illegal drug markets, emphasizing zero tolerance for violations of drug laws.

In addition to the immediate law enforcement impact, the operation sends a strong message to criminal networks that the NDLEA is intensifying efforts to dismantle drug syndicates and strengthen border and internal security mechanisms. Officials reiterated that sustained vigilance and collaboration with international and regional partners are vital in stemming the proliferation of illicit drugs in Nigeria and the wider West African sub-region.

With the massive seizures of tramadol pills and cannabis, the NDLEA has demonstrated its growing capacity to tackle drug trafficking on a large scale, reinforcing the agency’s mandate to protect public health, disrupt criminal enterprises, and uphold the rule of law. Stakeholders have urged continued support for the agency through adequate funding, training, and technological upgrades to maintain effective nationwide drug enforcement operations.

 

The NDLEA has called on citizens to report suspicious activities and cooperate with enforcement agencies, stressing that collective action is essential to reducing the supply and consumption of illicit drugs. The recent raids highlight the ongoing challenges posed by drug trafficking in Nigeria while showcasing the agency’s commitment to safeguarding communities and promoting a drug-free society.