In a significant anti-smuggling operation, the Ogun 1 Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has intercepted a cache of life-threatening ammunitions, harmful substances, and other prohibited items.
Comptroller Ahmadu Shuaibu, the Customs Area Controller (CAC), disclosed this during a press briefing held at the Command’s headquarters in Idiroko on Friday, March 15, 2024.
According to Comptroller Shuaibu, the operation, conducted on Thursday, March 14, 2024, resulted in the seizure of 940 rounds of live ammunition concealed ingeniously in sacks of cassava flakes, locally known as garri.
The items were intercepted along the border line after more than two weeks of surveillance from the Republic of Benin.
Detailing the operation, Shuaibu highlighted the challenges faced by the Command in tracking down the smuggling cartel, including heightened surveillance and security measures adopted by the perpetrators.
Despite the obstacles, the Command’s superior security network led to the seizure of the contraband, although the suspects managed to evade arrest.
In addition to the ammunition seizure, the Command also confiscated 123 sacks and 3,172 parcels of cannabis sativa (Indian Hemp), 380 pieces of donkey skin, 304 bales of used clothes, and 910 cartons of frozen poultry products, among others.
The total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of the seized items amounted to N557,120,828.00.
Comptroller Shuaibu emphasized the Command’s commitment to ensuring zero casualties during operations while warning smugglers of impending consequences for their illicit activities.
He urged Nigerians to collaborate with the Customs Service in the fight against smuggling, emphasizing the grave threats posed by these illegal activities to national security and public safety.
Regarding revenue generation, the CAC reported a total revenue of N24,283,788 generated by the Command from January to date. The revenue sources included baggage assessment and auction sales of petroleum products.
In concluding his address, Comptroller Shuaibu expressed appreciation for the support of the Customs management team, the efforts of Customs operatives, intelligence units, and the collaboration of sister agencies and stakeholders.
He commended the professionalism of the press in their reportage, underscoring their role in disseminating vital information to the public.
The Customs Area Controller urged continued cooperation in making Nigerian society a safe and peaceful place to live, reiterating the Customs Service’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and properties.
