The Ogun 1 Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service in it's anti Smuggling exploit made seizures of life threatening ammunition, harmful substances and other prohibited items.
Addressing journalists on Friday, 15th of March 2024, the Customs Area Controller (CAC), of the command, Comptroller Ahmadu Shuaibu said the Command, while on anti-smuggling operation along the border lines, his operatives intercepted smuggled 940 rounds of live ammunition ingeniously concealed in sacks of cassava flakes, commonly known as garri in local parlance.
Speaking on the circumstances surrounding the operation , Compt. Shuibu said the Command had been on its trail for more than 2 weeks, from the Republic of Benin, before it was eventually smuggled into the country. He further stated that during the trail of the cartel, the received intel revealed the level of surveillance mounted and security beef-up by the unscrupulous elements, to safeguard the items and evade arrest. He added that the superior security network of the Command eventually aided the seizure but lost the suspects, as the items were abandoned by the suspected smugglers who absconded in a bid to evade arrest.
Other items seized by the command according to a press release by the Public Relations Officer of the Command, CSC Hemmed Oloyede includes, 123 sacks and 3,172 parcels of cannabis sativa, commonly known as Indian Hemp; 380 pieces of donkey skin; 304 bales of used clothes; and 910 cartons of frozen poultry products, among others. These items were intercepted at the creeks, border lines and other strategic locations across Ogun State, through our intelligence network and 24 hours patrol/anti-smuggling activities by our operatives. The Duty Paid Value (DPV) of the total seizure amounted to N557,120,828.00.
The release further stated that, "We are pleased to state that, in recent times, we carry out our operations with zero casualty and that is a great achievement in view of the circumstances; We value lives of our people and we try our best to safeguard it. I will like to state emphatically, that our operatives bear arms to protect their lives where and when necessary, any threat to their lives will not be treated with levity. Let me sound a note of warning to recalcitrant smugglers that their days are numbered. They will never go unpunished with their nefarious activities. We shall keep uncovering their antics and very soon, they will be arrested and be made to face the full wrath of the law".
In the area of revenue,the CAC said the Command generated a total sum of N24,283,788 from January till date, and said the sources of the revenue collection remain baggage assessment and auction sales of petroleum products.
While appealing to well-meaning and patriotic Nigerians, to join forces with the Command in its fight against smuggling of harmful substance, light weapon, arms and ammunition, the command boss stressed that the items poses great threats to national security and have the potential of destroying lives and properties within the shortest time possible.
Comptroller Shuaibu appreciated the continuous support of the CGC, Bashir Adeniyi MFR and his management team. He underscored that the usual support plays a significant role in enhancing the Command’s operations and contributing immensely to its achievements. He commended the efforts of his gallant operatives who are making the seizures, as well as the concerted efforts of our Customs Intelligence Unit and Customs Police Unit in enhancing the Command’s operations. He recognized and appreciated the collaborative efforts of the various sister agencies and other critical stakeholders.
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