Delta Police Seize 1,520 Packets of Tramadol Hidden in Truck on Asaba-Agbor Expressway

Police operatives in Delta State have intercepted a significant consignment of illicit drugs concealed within a commercial truck travelling along a major highway.

The Eagle Net Special Squad of the Delta State Police Command made the discovery during a routine stop-and-search operation along the Asaba–Agbor Expressway near Northwest Filling Station. Officers became suspicious of a white truck and conducted a thorough inspection of its cargo.

During the search, police recovered 1,520 packets of Tramadol and Swinol tablets carefully hidden beneath company machinery loaded in the vehicle. The concealment method suggests an organised attempt to smuggle the controlled substances past security checkpoints.

Tramadol, a prescription opioid pain medication, has become widely abused across Nigeria and is frequently trafficked through interstate routes. Swinol, another pharmaceutical product subject to abuse, was also found in substantial quantities.

The Delta State Police Command has intensified patrols and checkpoint operations along major highways as part of broader efforts to combat drug trafficking in the region. The Eagle Net Special Squad was specifically established to target organised criminal activities including narcotics smuggling.

Drug enforcement experts say traffickers increasingly attempt to conceal illicit substances within legitimate commercial cargo to avoid detection. The use of company machinery as cover indicates sophisticated smuggling methods that require diligent police work to uncover.

The suspects arrested in connection with the seizure are currently in police custody and undergoing interrogation. Investigators are working to trace the origin of the drugs and identify other individuals involved in the trafficking network.

The seized drugs have an estimated street value running into millions of naira. Police say the interception represents a significant blow to drug distribution networks operating across Nigerias South-South region.

The Delta State Commissioner of Police has commended the Eagle Net Squad for their vigilance and professionalism. He urged members of the public to continue providing credible information that could assist law enforcement agencies in tackling drug-related crimes.

The suspects will be charged to court upon completion of investigations, facing charges related to possession and trafficking of controlled substances contrary to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency Act and other relevant statutes.