By Ifeoma Ikem
The Customs Area Controller, Mohammed Shuaib has reaffirmed the unit’s commitment to combating smuggling and protecting Nigeria’s economy.
Shuaib gave the assurance during his press briefing at the Federal Operations Unit, Zone A, Ikeja on Thursday.
He emphasized that the unit will continue to work tirelessly to prevent smuggling and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
He said the unit made notable seizures involving eight containers with mis-declared goods or attempts to evade duties.
He noted that the containers included goods such as used shoes, auto spare parts, furniture, and vehicles.
“The seizures were made within a period of three weeks and include a wide range of contraband items worth billions of naira.
“The seized items include 4,068 bags of foreign parboiled rice, 22 used vehicles, 485 jerrycans of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), 120 bales of used clothing, 57 parcels of Cannabis Sativa, and 47 cartons of foreign poultry products.
“The unit also seized 770 jerrycans of foreign vegetable oil and the duty paid value of the seized goods is estimated to be in N1.5 billion.
“The seizures are a significant blow to smugglers and will help to boost the country’s revenue’’.
He noted that smuggling has a significant impact on the economy, and the unit’s efforts will help to promote legitimate trade.
“We are committed to trade facilitation and ensuring that legitimate trade is not hindered and it will help to promote economic growth and development’’.
The comptroller attributed the successes of the service to the intelligence-driven operations and collaboration with sister security agencies and local communities.
He added that the unit generated N20.7 million through demand notices, auctioned perishables, and petroleum products from irregular importation.
“We are working tirelessly to track down smugglers, intercept their goods, disrupt smuggling networks and prevent smugglers from making profits.
“Four suspects were arrested in connection with the seizures. Some of the suspects were granted administrative bail, while others are under investigation.
“The service is working to ensure that those responsible for smuggling are brought to justice’’.
Shuaibu said that the service is working to raise public awareness about the dangers of smuggling and educate the public about the impact of smuggling on the economy and the importance of legitimate trade.
“We are also working with other agencies to prevent smuggling and promote a coordinated approach to combating smuggling,’’ he streessed.
