The National Security Adviser (NSA), retired Major General Babagana Monguno, has raised alarm that manufacturers and smugglers of tramadol have discreetly started changing the original name of the drug to tafrodol in an effort to evade detection of security agencies at the nation’s seaports.
In a letter signed by the NSA and addressed to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Hameed Ali, the NSA asked the NCS to alert its officials at the nation’s entry points to watch out for this brand of drug coming into the country
The letter dated 30th October 2020 titled, “Suspected change of name of tramadol”, a copy of which was sighted by SHIPS & PORTS, said, “Intelligence at the disposal of the Office of the National Security Adviser revealed that manufacturers of tramadol tablets have discreetly started changing the brand name of tramadol to tafrodol to evade detection by officials of the relevant Nigeria security agencies.
“In view of the above, the NCS may wish to alert its officials at Nigeria’s points of entry to watch out for this brand of drug coming into the country.
“In this regard, you are requested to circulate this information to all the Customs formation and physical examination base for the detection and detention of such suspected drugs and the ONSA be notified accordingly.”
Recall that the Federal Government banned importation of tramadol in excess of 100mg due to widespread abuse and health implications on youths.