The Ogun 1 Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced the seizure of 4,684 bags of foreign parboiled rice weighing 50kg each, alongside 901 parcels of Cannabis Sativa (marijuana) during the month of October, 2023.
The Acting Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller Ahmadu Shuaibu revealed these while addressing newsmen in Ogun on Wednesday, emphasizing the substantial Duty Paid Value (DPV) of over N398.47 million for the intercepted items.
Highlighting the Command’s commitment to curbing smuggling activities, Shuaibu showcased the command’s efforts, mentioning revenue generation of over N30.4 million through baggage assessment and auction sales of seized petroleum products in the same period.
According to him, this achievement marks a significant increase compared to the corresponding period in 2022, reflecting a notable 400% increment.
The array of seized items in October 2023 included 500 foreign-used pneumatic tyres, 23 conveyance vehicles, and 5 foreign-used vehicles, constituting the 122 items intercepted during the period.
Highlighting efforts to strengthen collaboration, Shuaibu mentioned the Command’s engagement in a familiarization tour of traditional institutions and sister security agencies, fostering synergy and cooperation with critical stakeholders in the state.
“From 1st to 31st of October, 2023, the command generated the total sum of N30,408,276.00 as revenue, through baggage assessment and auction sales of seized petroleum products. In comparison with the amount of N5,487,076.00 collected in the corresponding period of the year 2022, there is a significant increase of N24,921,200.00, which is over 400% increment.
“The persistent seizure of Cannabis Sativa, foreign used pneumatic tyres and other dangerous goods, is a testimony of the Command’s relentless efforts and resilience in preventing our teeming youth from harmful substances which could either truncate or render their lives useless. It is also proof of our concern for safeguarding our motorists from road mishaps which could terminate their lives or subject them to permanent disability.
“We are determined to make our society a safe place to live with peace of mind and an enabling environment for our businesses to thrive”.
Shuaibu attributed the successful interceptions to a conducive working environment fostered by the Comptroller General of Customs (CGC), Comptroller Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, and his management team. He further acknowledged the support received, including the recent procurement of 8 Toyota Land Cruiser trucks, enhancing anti-smuggling operations.
Operating under an open-door policy, the Ogun 1 Area Command solicited the support of patriotic Nigerians in sharing information on legitimate trade while issuing a stern warning to potential smugglers to desist from illicit activities or face the repercussions within his command.
