Follow Us on Google
By Steve Agbota
The Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone A of the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) has reported significant anti-smuggling successes in 2024, intercepting 707 seizures with a total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N18.71 billion. Key among the seized items are 48,912 bags of 50kg foreign parboiled rice, 191,975 liters of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), and 7,861 kg of Cannabis sativa.
The Unit also arrested 94 suspects, six of whom have been convicted for various offences. These actions, according to the NCS, reflect its commitment to combating illicit trade and enforcing compliance with the Customs Act of 2023.
Speaking at a press briefing, Comptroller Kola Oladeji, the Controller of FOU Zone A, highlighted the Unit’s efforts in safeguarding the nation’s economy and security. “These achievements underscore our determination to protect the nation’s economy and security against illicit cross-border trade and movement around our borders,” he stated.
Oladeji noted that the recently launched Operation Swift Sting has delivered remarkable results within just two weeks, including the seizure of cannabis sativa, 4,010 bags of 50kg foreign parboiled rice, and significant quantities of PMS. “It is clear that Operation Swift Sting is delivering unbearable heat to the smuggling cartels while ensuring the facilitation of compliant trade with impressive outcomes,” he said.
Other notable seizures include 6,168 pieces of dried donkey skins, 37,630 sachets of Tramadol, 207 motor vehicles (some cleared after outstanding duties were paid), 6,755 cartons of foreign frozen poultry, 1,433 bales of used clothing, 1,773 used refrigerator compressors, and 317 cartons of illicit medicaments.
Additionally, the Unit recovered N1.012 billion in revenue through documentary checks and the issuance of Demand Notices to address underpayment of duties. Oladeji emphasized the importance of intelligence-driven operations in preventing smuggling, stating, “Smuggling operations that employ ingenious concealment methods could have significant impacts on the nation’s economy and security if not checked with modern intelligence tools.”
He also called on citizens to support the Customs Service by providing timely information on illicit cross-border trade. “The Service is committed to raising awareness about the dangers of smuggling and the importance of compliance with Customs regulations,” he added.
