Douala Airport Authorities Seize Cocaine Worth FCFA 9 Billion

Customs officials at the Douala International Airport have seized 245 kilograms of cocaine that was being smuggled into the country.

The seizure, described as a “record-breaking” in an official statement, took place in the early afternoon of July 18, 2025.

The cocaine, identified has been identified as cocaine hydrochloride, a potent narcotic known for its euphoric effects and high addiction risk. It was discovered hidden in plastic barrels coming from Europe.

The estimated street value of the cocaine, according to state media Cameroon Tribune, is approximately $15 million USD, equivalent to roughly 9 billion CFA francs.

The cargo had been languishing in the airport’s ADC warehouse for over a month, with no claimant identified, raising suspicions among authorities.

“I was informed that a suspicious shipment had been sitting in the ADC warehouse for about a month without an importer coming forward,” said Edwin Fongod Nuvaga, Director General of Customs as quoted by Cameroon Tribune.

He noted that this seizure follows another significant drug bust less than two months ago and that efforts are ongoing to combat drug trafficking through the airport.

The customs service has not disclosed further details about the investigation, including potential suspects or the exact European origin of the shipment.