In a significant crackdown on smuggling, the Federal Operations Unit, Zone A, Ikeja, has intercepted contraband goods valued at N1.5 billion and arrested four suspects in a three-week operation. This impressive haul is a testament to the unit’s relentless efforts to combat illicit trade and protect the economy.
Comptroller Muhammed Shuaibu, the Customs Area Controller, revealed the details of the operation during a briefing in Lagos, where he handed over the seized items to officials from the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). The seizures, which took place between April 23 and May 16, included seven 20-foot containers of illicit items, such as used tyres and vehicles, foreign parboiled rice, new shoes, clothes, and bags.
The unit also seized 4,085 bags of 50kg foreign rice, equivalent to seven trailer loads, and 15 foreign-used vehicles. Additionally, 82 packs of Tramadol and 246 kilograms of Cannabis Sativa were intercepted, along with 290 jerry cans of petrol and 12 bales of used clothing. The total value of the seized goods is estimated to be N1.5 billion.
Mr. Shuaibu praised the unit’s efforts, saying that the Nigeria Customs Service remains committed to combating smuggling, counterfeits, and other illicit trade. He emphasized the importance of agency collaboration in achieving this goal and thanked the Comptroller General, Bashir Adeniyi, for the opportunity to lead the command. The unit’s shift to intelligence-driven operations has reduced delays caused by traditional stop-and-search methods, making it more effective in its operations.
The seizures are a significant blow to smugglers and will help to reduce the circulation of harmful substances in the country. NDLEA’s Festac Area Commander, Abdul Maiyaki, and NAFDAC Taskforce Chairman, Shuiba Muhammad, both praised the Customs unit for its efforts in securing the nation against illicit trade. The collaboration between agencies has been instrumental in reducing insecurity linked to drug abuse, and the seizures will help to lower the country’s insecurity levels.
The operation is a significant milestone in the fight against smuggling and illicit trade in Nigeria. Mr. Shuaibu urged the public to report suspicious smuggling activities and advised honest declarations to avoid clearance issues. He emphasized the importance of efficient trade facilitation in promoting economic growth, job creation, and regional integration in the global economy. With its intelligence-led operations, the unit is creating a more transparent, inclusive, and seamless trading environment in Lagos, and its efforts are a step in the right direction towards a safer and more prosperous Nigeria.
