Christmas Blow Against ‘Merchants of Death’: NDLEA Intercepts Millions of Tramadol Pills
Amid the festive cheer and tinsel-laden streets, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has struck a significant blow against a dark underbelly of the holiday season: illegal drug trafficking. In a remarkable feat, the agency has intercepted millions of tramadol 225mg pills, intended for distribution during the Christmas period, predominantly targeting the youth.
Fighting the ‘Merchants of Death’
The NDLEA’s Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, revealed this news via a statement on his Facebook account. The swift action taken by the agency has effectively thwarted the malicious intentions of these so-called ‘merchants of death.’ Despite the numerous tricks employed by these peddlers to avoid detection, the vigilant eyes of the NDLEA have ensured these drugs will not reach the streets.
Unmasking the Scale of the Operation
While the interception of such a vast quantity of tramadol is a significant achievement, it serves to underscore the ongoing battle against illegal drug trafficking in Nigeria. The NDLEA’s efforts extend beyond this single operation. In Kaduna State alone, 103 suspects were arrested in December, with seizures amounting to 1,458 kg of illicit drugs. These seizures spanned a range of substances, including cocaine, heroin, cannabis, tramadol, methamphetamine, and other psychotropic substances.
Impact and Response
The relentless pursuit of these perpetrators led to the dismantling of 26 illicit drug joints and secured six convictions. An additional 24 suspects have been arraigned. On a national scale, the NDLEA has seized narcotics worth N800 billion, arrested 42,105 offenders, and intercepted 12 shipments of cocaine. The fight against illicit drugs is not just an institutional responsibility; it’s a collective one, with the effects of this battle resonating deeply within society, particularly among the youth.
