The Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone A, of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) in Ikeja, Lagos, intercepted contraband goods valued at N8 billion in July 2024. This was disclosed by the Customs Area Controller (CAC) of the unit, Kola Oladeji, during a press briefing, where he announced the arrest of 14 suspects linked to the seizures.
Among the seized items were 6,168 pieces of donkey skin weighing 29,606 kg, 37,630 sachets of Tramadol (250 mg), 11,820 new machetes, 4,740 bags of foreign parboiled rice, and 978 kg of Cannabis sativa. Other items included 1,145 cartons of poultry products, 15 imported vehicles, 257 bales of used clothing, and 11,700 liters of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).
“We are confronting the smugglers’ desperation with our unwavering resistance, leading to the seizure of their goods and the arrest of suspects. Smuggling undermines national security, economic development, and the social well-being of citizens,” Oladeji stated. He emphasized that smugglers often attempt to evade duty payments and violate import and export prohibitions.
The July 2024 operations resulted in 70 seizures with a total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N8.09 billion. The unit also recovered N133.69 million from importers who under-declared their cargoes at seaports in the Western zone. “For the month of July 2024, N133.6 million was generated through documentary checks and the issuance of Demand Notices (DN) for consignments found to be underpaid. This amount has been duly paid into the Federation Account,” Oladeji noted.
The unit also uncovered new smuggling tactics used to bring drugs into the country from neighboring Benin Republic. “We intercepted 35,630 sachets of Tramadol and Cannabis sativa along the Lagos/Ibadan Expressway, using intelligence to counter smugglers who now deploy smaller vehicles for distribution,” he explained. The seized drugs will be handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further action.
Oladeji highlighted the significant increase in revenue and seizures in July 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. “Revenue generated rose by N96.08 million, reflecting a 245% increase, while interceptions jumped from 50 seizures in July 2023 to 70 in July 2024, with a DPV difference of N7.63 billion, marking a 1,750% increase.”
He urged Nigerians to refrain from smuggling and discouraged involvement in illegal activities for financial gain. “As we approach the end of 2024, I appeal to all Nigerians to avoid smuggling. We also call on stakeholders, including traditional rulers, faith-based organizations, youth leaders, and business groups, to educate their communities against smuggling. Traders and customs clearing agents should ensure honest declarations and proper duty payments to avoid penalties,” he warned.
Additionally, the unit disposed of the seized 11,700 liters of PMS through open auction, following approval from Customs Headquarters, and the proceeds were deposited into the Federation Account. Oladeji stressed that the unit remains committed to combating smuggling and protecting Nigeria’s economic interests.
DNews Info is a trusted source for breaking news, insightful commentary, and in-depth coverage of events across Nigeria and beyond. With a commitment to delivering accurate, timely, and engaging stories, we aim to keep our readers informed and empowered. Stay connected for the latest updates in politics, business, entertainment, and more.
Discover more from DnewsInfo
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
