The departmental branch of the Central Office for the Repression of Illicit Drug Trafficking (OCRTIS) in Niger made a record drug seizure in the Abalak department, located in the western Tahoua region.
According to a post on the Niger National Police’s Facebook page during a routine inspection at the Agadez road checkpoint, OCRTIS agents intercepted an individual traveling on a bus from Tahoua.
The suspect was found in possession of a substantial quantity of narcotics, totaling 44,800 tablets: 4,000 tramadol tablets, 19,500 diazepam tablets, and 21,300 exol tablets, the police reported. The market value of the haul is estimated at 16,560,000 FCFA.
The seized drugs were presented on the same day to administrative, judicial, and traditional authorities in the Abalak department at the premises of the Departmental Directorate of National Police (DDPN).
The ceremony provided an opportunity for officials to emphasise the importance of collaboration between institutions in the fight against drug trafficking.
The DDPN Director addressed the gathering, thanking the attending authorities and outlining the trafficker’s methods. He also referenced a recent OCRTIS seizure involving a sack of locusts containing two cannabis balls destined for Agadez.
The President of the Abalak District Court praised the OCRTIS agents’ efforts, revealing that the apprehended trafficker was a repeat offender already known to local judicial services for similar crimes.
Speaking on behalf of the country’s highest authorities, the Prefect of Abalak Department commended the OCRTIS agents for their professionalism and resolve, urging law enforcement to sustain their efforts in this vital fight for the population’s safety and well-being.
The DDPN of Abalak seized the occasion to thank local communities for their cooperation and called for heightened vigilance. Citizens are encouraged to report any suspicious activity to contribute to collective security.
ARD/ac/lb/as/APA