The Nigeria Customs Service, Ogun I Command, has made remarkable strides in its anti-smuggling efforts, as it intercept illicit goods worth total Duty Paid Value of N229,112,424.00 in its latest operations.
These achievements were announced on Thursday during the maiden press conference of the Acting Customs Area Controller, DC Mohammed Salisu, held at the Command’s Headquarters in Idiroko.
Addressing members of the press, Salisu emphasized his commitment to professionalism, integrity, and a renewed focus on curbing smuggling activities and economic sabotage.
He attributed the Command’s successes to strategic intelligence gathering, surveillance, and collaboration with patriotic Nigerians, underscoring the support and leadership of the Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi.
While highlighting the seizures made within the past few days, he noted that 2,169 bags of foreign parboiled rice weighing 50kg each; 1,128 parcels of cannabis sativa, commonly known as marijuana, weighing 1,109.3kg; 21 bales and 2 sacks of used clothes; 166 pieces of pneumatic tyres; 4,360 cartons of imported shoes; 250 kegs of Premium Motor Spirit, each weighing 25 litres; 20 units of vehicles used for smuggling; 1 unit of foreign-used vehicle, a 2012 model Toyota Highlander, were seized.
He informed that the items were intercepted at key smuggling hotspots, including Idiroko, Ilaro, the Alamala-Rounda axis, Obada Oko-Abeokuta axis, Abule Kazeem-Abeokuta axis, and Ijoun axis, among others.
Speaking further, the Acting CAC emphasized on the significance of the key seizures saying, “The illegal importation of rice undermines Nigeria’s efforts to achieve food self-sufficiency and disrupts local rice production. Smuggling of this staple is viewed as economic sabotage, and the Command remains steadfast in its resolve to bring perpetrators to justice.
“Cannabis Sativa- The smuggling of cannabis poses severe risks to public health and safety, fueling criminal activities and jeopardizing community well-being. The Ogun I Command is working closely with other security agencies to eliminate this menace.
“The importation of used clothes is prohibited due to health hazards and its negative impact on the local textile industry, which has the potential to create jobs for millions of Nigerians,” he said.
Salisu equally issued a stern warning to smugglers and their collaborators, urging them to desist from illegal activities or face the full wrath of the law.
He assured the law-abiding public and legitimate traders in Ogun State that the Command’s operations are targeted exclusively at offenders, and that legitimate trade would be encouraged to foster economic growth.
While expressing gratitude to the CGC and the management team for the opportunity of making him an Area Controller, he pledged to continue to deploy measures that align with the CGC’s thrust and also commended officers and men of the Ogun I Command for their dedication and resilience, urging them to remain vigilant and disciplined.
He also urged the media to continue their critical role in educating the public on the dangers of smuggling and economic sabotage, adding “Together, we will safeguard our economy, protect our communities, and uphold the integrity of the Nigeria Customs Service,” while reaffirming the Command’s commitment to its mandate.
