The Delta State Police Command has intercepted a Toyota Hiace bus loaded with large quantities of controlled substances, including codeine syrup and tramadol tablets, at a toll gate in Asaba, the state capital.
A video shared on Saturday by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Bright Edafe, revealed that the vehicle had its number plate covered with a Delta State Government tag and was heavily tinted, which aroused suspicion among officers on duty.
"Today, we have a classic example of why covering plate numbers and tinting vehicles is a major security concern.
"This driver was intercepted at a toll gate here in Asaba while bearing a special Delta State Government plate number that will also be investigated," he said in the video.
According to the police spokesperson, the driver initially attempted to evade arrest but was later caught at Mami Market, where a search of the vehicle uncovered several bags filled with drugs.
"You wouldn’t know what they are carrying, whether arms, guns, or even human parts. You will be shocked when you see the contents. These are controlled drugs, codeine, tramadol, and others, in massive quantities," Edafe said.
Footage from the video showed bundles of codeine bottles and tramadol tablets being unpacked from one of the bags.
Edafe described the seizure as a important haul, adding that it would take a detailed inventory to account for the full quantity.
The driver, identified as Ugo Chukwu, aged 46, admitted to covering the vehicle’s number plate to avoid detection.
"I covered it because I don’t want anybody to know what I’m carrying. Some of my enemies might find out the type of business I am in or the time I will pass. The drugs are not mine; I only transport them for other people," he said.
Chukwu further acknowledged the dangers of drug abuse, especially among young people, saying he would be concerned if his own children engaged in it.
SP Edafe used the incident to point out the security risks associated with tinted vehicles and covered license plates.
"This is not to embarrass anybody. But you can see why these regulations exist. This could easily have been arms or explosives. That’s why monitoring tinted vehicles is very important," he said.
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