Daud Olatunji
In a bid to safeguard the public against a surge in fraudulent schemes, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has issued a critical scam alert, warning individuals to remain vigilant against imposters posing as NCS officials on various social media platforms.
The service raised the alarm in a statement issued in Monday by National Public Relations Officer , Chief Superintendent of Customs,Abdulahi Maiwadah, for Comptroller General of Customs.
The statement read that the deceitful entities have been exploiting the trust of unsuspecting victims, falsely claiming to be associated with the NCS for the purpose of conducting auctions or recruitment.
According to Maiwada, recent incidents have shed light on a concerning increase in scams orchestrated by cunning individuals impersonating high-ranking NCS officials.
He added that these fraudulent tactics manipulate the public’s trust by promoting fictitious auctions and sham recruitment drives, falsely endorsed by the NCS.
He said “the NCS has laid down Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for the disposal of seized or overtime goods in accordance with the Nigeria Customs Service Act of 2023.
“While these items may be in the custody of the NCS, it is essential to understand that NCS officials are only authorized to conduct auctions or recruitment with the necessary legal backing, following strict processes and procedures.
“The NCS wants to make it unequivocally clear that auctions of seized goods are never carried out via any social media platform. Any claims of such activities on social media should be treated as fraudulent and reported without delay.
“For accurate and up-to-date information about the Nigeria Customs Service and its operations, the public is strongly encouraged to verify information exclusively through the official NCS website, www.customs.gov.ng.
” In addition, the public can reach out to the NCS help desk line at +2347037891156.
” The official social media handles of the NCS also serve as reliable sources of information, committed to providing accurate and authenticated updates on the service and its activities.
“Individuals are advised to visit any Customs formation nationwide and consult with the Public Relations Officers (PROs) to verify any financial commitments related to seized goods or recruitment before proceeding with any transactions.”
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