Eastern Marine Command Intercepts 680 cartons of smuggled cosmetics, 112 pneumatic tyres

The Eastern Marine Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) had intercepted 680 cartons of smuggled cosmetics and 112 pneumatic tyres along the Oron Ibaka- Cameroon waterways, preventing potentially dangerous products from reaching the Nigerian market.

According to a statement from the command, officers made the seizures during an intelligence-led operation in the Eastern waterways, as part of efforts to curb smuggling and enforce compliance with import regulations.

Speaking on the development, the Acting Comptroller of Eastern Marine Command, Deputy Comptroller of Customs (DC) Esien Etim Essiet, said the operation aimed to protect lives and safeguard legitimate businesses from the consequences of illicit trade.

He disclosed that the 112 pneumatic tyres were found to be unsafe, substandard and improperly stored, conditions which could expose motorists and other road users to tyre failure, blowouts and potentially fatal accidents. He added that the 680 cartons of cosmetics were intercepted for improper documentation, lack of required safety certification, and suspicion that some products contained banned or toxic substances.

Whether it is substandard vehicle tyres that threaten lives on our highways or unverified cosmetic chemicals that endanger public health, we will continue to disrupt these illegal supply chains and bring perpetrators to justice,” he said.

The Acting Area Controller noted that the interception also underscored the importance of protecting legitimate businesses and local manufacturers from unfair competition caused by smuggled goods entering the country without paying appropriate duties and complying with regulatory requirements.

While commending the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi and his management team for providing logistics and operational equipment that had strengthened the Command’s capacity to conduct sustained operations across the Eastern waterways, Deputy Comptroller Essiet also praised officers of the Command for their vigilance, professionalism and commitment towards protecting Nigeria’s maritime borders. 

The interception demonstrates the NCS’s commitment to preventing illicit goods from reaching consumers, while supporting public safety, revenue protection and a level playing field for businesses operating within the law, he stressed.