U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers in Cincinnati intercepted a shipment containing 30,000 Tramadol tablets on December 4. The shipment, originating from Barbados and destined for St. Kitts-Nevis Island, was found to contain small boxes each holding 30 push pill tabs, totaling 30,000 tablets of the prescription drug.
Tramadol is classified as a Schedule IV substance under the Controlled Substances Act due to its potential for abuse. The seized tablets were 50mg each and have an estimated street value of $150,000.
LaFonda D. Sutton-Burke, Director of Field Operations at the Chicago Field Office, commented on the seizure: “Most people hear about CBP seizing narcotics shipments. However, shipments of illegal prescription pills are very dangerous too. These pills were not regulated by the FDA and can contain harmful chemicals that could be poisonous.”
Tramadol is used to treat moderate to moderately severe pain and acts similarly to opioid analgesics by altering how the brain perceives pain. It is often misused by narcotic addicts, chronic pain patients, and health professionals.
CBP advises buyers to ensure that any imported goods comply with state and federal regulations regarding admissibility requirements and clearance processes for e-commerce purchases.
CBP regularly screens international passengers and cargo arriving at U.S. ports of entry for narcotics, weapons, and other restricted items as part of its mission to enhance national safety and security through collaboration and innovation.
