The Forward Operating Base (FOB) of the Nigerian Navy in Badagry, Lagos, has handed over 1,109 bags of seized foreign rice to the Seme Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS).
Speaking at the handing over on Thursday , Navy Capt. Oyeleye Omotayo, FOB Commanding Officer, Badagry, said the Nigerian navy had stepped up fight against smuggling and other criminal activities along the Badagry-Porto Novo Creeks.
Omotayo said that 121 parcels of seized cannabis sativa would also be handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
“The FOB Badagry has intensified operations, leading to multiple successful crackdowns, in line with Federal Government’s directives.
“Naval operatives intercepted illicit drugs in a series of raids in November.
“More recently, on Feb. 6, a swift operation resulted in the seizure of 33 bags of smuggled foreign rice at Akere Creek.
“The navy foiled smuggling attempts involving petroleum products, confiscating 3,375 litres in Ajara town and Bollinton.
” The 3,375 petroleum products were destroyed at the naval Base.”
According to him, on Feb. 8, a Quick Response Team rescued nine suspected victims of human trafficking, underscoring the Nigerian navy’s commitment to combating trafficking networks in the region.
The commanding officer said the momentum continued that same day, as a targeted operation in Isalu and Yafin communities led to the seizure of 1,109 bags of foreign parboiled rice and fiber boats equipped with outboard engines.
“The smuggled goods, allegedly believed to have originated from the Benin Republic, were handed over to the NCS.
“This is in compliance with the Harmonized Standard Procedures on Arrest, Detention, Prosecution 2016.
‘Additionally, four bags containing 121 parcels of suspected cannabis sativa will be handed over to the NDLEA for further investigation.
“It is pertinent to state that the navy has zero tolerance for illegalities, and the Base is well equipped, highly motivated and adequately poised to tackle the menace,” he said.
Omotayo warned perpetuators, collaborators and sponsors of illegalities to desist from these acts or face arrest and prosecution.
Receiving the suspected smugglers and the smuggled bags of foreign rice, Imam Shehu, an assistant comptroller in charge of enforcement at the Semé area command, commended the navy for ensuring safety on the waterways.
Shehu said the NCS and the navy have strong synergy, adding that the collaboration between the agencies would continue.
He said the development would further strengthen the cordial relationship that existed between the navy, customs and other sister agencies.
According to him, the seizure has sent a signal to smugglers that when agencies of government come together, there is no hiding place for criminals.
Receiving the exhibit on behalf of Mr Owen Dinneys, Commander of Narcotics, Area Command, Seme Special Command of NDLEA, Mr H Ayatu, promised that an investigation would begin on the seized items.
He commended the navy for the seizures, assuring them that the perpetrators would not go unpunished.
