Paragraph 1: A Significant Seizure of Contraband in Southwestern Nigeria
The Nigeria Customs Service, Federal Operations Unit, Zone A, Ikeja, achieved a significant victory in its ongoing fight against smuggling in August 2024. Operating within the southwestern region of the country, the unit intercepted a substantial cache of contraband, including 15 assorted rifles, a staggering 4,841 rounds of ammunition, and several other prohibited items. This operation, part of a sustained effort to dismantle smuggling networks, highlights the Customs Service’s commitment to national security and border control. The announcement was made by Mohammed Shuaibu, the Customs Area Controller in charge of the unit, during a press briefing in Ikeja.
Paragraph 2: Interception Tactics and Discovery of Concealed Contraband
The operation unfolded near the border in Ogun State, where customs officers, acting on credible intelligence, intercepted a Nissan Almera vehicle suspected of carrying illegal goods. The vehicle was traversing the Ilara bush paths, likely in an attempt to circumvent official border crossings. Upon encountering the customs officers, the driver and a passenger abandoned the vehicle and fled into the bush, leaving behind the incriminating cargo. A thorough search of the vehicle revealed that the contraband, meticulously concealed within second-hand clothing and cartons of spaghetti, included a variety of firearms. Among the seized weapons were 14 used JOJEF Magnum semi-automatic firearms, manufactured in Italy, and one used Mossberg pump-action shotgun made in the USA.
Paragraph 3: Further Interceptions and the Undervaluation of Contraband
In a separate incident, another patrol team intercepted a Volkswagen Sprinter bus along the Akure-Ore axis in Ondo State. The bus was suspected of carrying industrial drones concealed within a wooden box. Upon inspection, it was confirmed that the drones lacked the necessary documentation for legal importation. One suspect was arrested in connection with this seizure. The Customs Area Controller, Shuaibu, revealed that the combined duty paid value of the drones, second-hand clothing, and cartons of spaghetti involved in both interceptions was estimated at N377 million, a substantial financial blow to the smuggling operation.
Paragraph 4: Emphasis on National Security and the Need for Proper Documentation
Shuaibu underscored the importance of these interceptions in the context of national security, highlighting the service’s unwavering commitment to disrupting the activities of non-state actors. He emphasized that the importation of arms, ammunition, and drones requires strict adherence to regulations, including obtaining valid approvals, permits, and an End User Certificate from the Office of the National Security Adviser. Any deviation from these requirements is viewed as a serious threat to national security and will be met with decisive action by relevant security agencies, including the Nigeria Customs Service.
Paragraph 5: Commendation of Officers, Inter-agency Collaboration, and Public Vigilance:
The Customs Area Controller commended the officers involved in the operations for their bravery, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to duty. He acknowledged that these successes were the result of meticulous planning, intelligence gathering, and precise tactical execution. He stressed the unit’s continued vigilance and commitment to suppressing smuggling activities. Emphasizing the importance of inter-agency collaboration, Shuaibu announced that the seized arms and ammunition would be handed over to the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons for further investigation and potential prosecution.
Paragraph 6: Call for Public Support in the Fight Against Smuggling
Recognizing the vital role of public support in combating smuggling, Shuaibu appealed to all Nigerians to report any suspicious activities or movements within their communities. He stressed that public vigilance is crucial for enabling law enforcement agencies to effectively discharge their duties, especially in the face of complex national security challenges. By working together, security agencies and the public can create a more secure environment and prevent non-state actors from achieving their criminal objectives. The Nigeria Customs Service remains dedicated to its mission of protecting the nation’s borders and safeguarding its citizens.
