Ayomide Awe
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun 1 Area Command, has intensified its crackdown on smuggling, intercepting contraband goods worth N279.5 million between January and February 2025.
PLATFORM TIMES reports that the seizure, described as a major success in the command’s anti-smuggling operations, was announced by the Area Controller, Comptroller Mohammed Shuaibu, during a press briefing in Abeokuta on Thursday.
The intercepted items include 2,145 bags of foreign rice, equivalent to four trailer loads, 612 bales of second-hand clothing, 843 units of used tyres, and 6,625 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).
Also confiscated were 75 sacks of cannabis sativa and 3,365 parcels of cannabis sativa broken down into: 1,057 parcels in coconut sizes, 159 parcels in bread sizes and 2,074 parcels in book sizes
Shuaibu stressed that the illicit importation of foreign rice undermines local production, while the used clothing and tyres pose health and environmental risks.
He also described the seizure of large quantities of cannabis sativa as a significant victory in curbing drug trafficking, a crime that fuels violence and criminal activities in the country.
“These seizures are not just numbers; they reflect our commitment to protecting Nigeria’s economy and the well-being of its citizens. Smuggling remains a serious threat, and we are determined to disrupt the networks behind it,” Shuaibu said.
The Customs boss cited the NCS Act, 2024, which grants officers extensive powers to combat smuggling.
According to him, Sections 6, 212, 226, 233, and 245 of the Act empower Customs personnel to patrol freely, seize smuggled goods, detain contraband items, and enter premises suspected of harboring illegal goods.
“Our legal mandate is clear, and we will continue to enforce it vigorously. No smuggler will go unpunished,” he vowed.
Beyond seizures, the command generated N9,694,072 from baggage assessments and auction sales of seized Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) within the two months.
Shuaibu emphasized that these funds contribute to the financial objectives of the Federal Government.
“This revenue is a significant contribution to national development. Our work is not only about enforcement but also about enhancing economic stability and security,” he stated.
Shuaibu attributed the success of these operations to intelligence gathering, systematic monitoring, and strong inter-agency collaboration.
He acknowledged the Comptroller-General of NCS, Adewale Adeniyi, for his unwavering support and also appreciated traditional rulers in Ogun State and sister security agencies for their cooperation.
He urged Nigerians to support Customs in the fight against smuggling, calling on communities to provide timely intelligence.
“We need the public’s cooperation. Smuggling does not benefit the people; it cripples the economy, endangers lives, and promotes criminal activities. Everyone must play a role in safeguarding our borders,” he said.
In adherence to regulatory procedures, the confiscated drugs have been handed over to the Ogun State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for proper disposal and investigation.
The Customs boss reaffirmed that his officers will remain vigilant and resolute in the battle against smugglers, ensuring that criminal elements do not evade justice.
Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
