The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) successfully intercepted and seized 35 cartons of syrups containing codeine, as revealed by Mr. Martins Iluyomade, the Director of NAFDAC South East Zone in Awka, Anambra State.

The task force, spearheaded by the capable leadership of Mr. Louis Mmadubuatta, an esteemed figure serving as the Coordinator of NAFDAC in the state of Anambra, executed a meticulously planned raid operation at two prominent warehouses situated within the bustling vicinity of Bridge Head Market.

This proactive initiative yielded significant results, as the team successfully seized a substantial quantity of contraband items, meticulously identified and cataloged for subsequent legal action.

Amidst the inventory of confiscated goods, codeine emerged as a stark presence, its notorious reputation as a substance with potent psychoactive properties necessitating its strict prohibition from public sale and distribution channels.

The fundamental importance of enforcing such prohibitive measures cannot be overstated, as the tangible risks associated with the unregulated availability of codeine in the market pose a grave threat to public health and safety.

Mr. Mmadubuatta, in his capacity as the leading authority overseeing these crucial regulatory efforts, voiced deep concerns regarding the alarming prevalence of codeine misuse, particularly within vulnerable segments of the population, most notably the impressionable youth demographic.

His impassioned plea for heightened awareness and vigilance underscores the pervasive societal consequences stemming from unchecked codeine abuse, ranging from the insidious specters of substance dependency and addiction to the stark realities of criminal behavior, mental health struggles, and incidences of sexual violence.

The proactive stance taken by the team under Mr. Mmadubuatta’s guidance stands as a testament to their unwavering commitment to safeguarding public welfare and upholding the integrity of regulatory standards within the community.

During their operation, the team also visited two packing stores at Bridge Head Drug Market, Onitsha, as part of their efforts to combat the illicit distribution of codeine.

“In total, 35 cartons and some fraction of codeine syrup were evacuated from the two warehouses.

“Codeine remains a restricted drug, it is prohibited from distribution in the open market because of its negative social and mental consequences if abused,” Mmadubuatta emphasized.