The Adamawa/Taraba Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service announced yesterday the seizure of smuggled goods valued at over N71.7 million. The disclosure was made during a press briefing at the Customs Headquarters in Yola.
Area Comptroller Garba Bashir stated that the successful operations, carried out by the Command’s enforcement unit between August and September 2024, resulted in the confiscation of various items, including 1,115 jerry cans and 26 drums of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), totalling 33,595 litres, which were reportedly destined for the Republic of Cameroon.
Other seized items included three vehicles used for smuggling, 200 bags of foreign flour, 57 bags of foreign parboiled rice, and 10 bales of second-hand clothing.
“These seizures highlight the relentless efforts of our operatives and serve as a warning to economic saboteurs that we are committed to ending illegal trade,” Bashir said.
He added that the seized PMS would be auctioned immediately due to its inflammable nature, with proceeds remitted to the Federation Account in accordance with the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.
The Comptroller also addressed the increasing threats and assaults on Customs officers at the borders, noting that these would not deter the Command from fulfilling its responsibilities.
“Despite the challenges, we remain resolute in our mission to eliminate smuggling in Adamawa and Taraba States,” he said, reaffirming the Command’s goal of achieving “ground zero” in smuggling activities.
Bashir praised the leadership of the Nigeria Customs Service under Comptroller-General Bashir Adewale Adeniyi for creating a supportive environment for the Command’s achievements. He also thanked other security agencies for their cooperation and urged continued collaboration.
In a direct warning to smugglers, the Comptroller advised them to abandon their illegal activities and engage in lawful trade, calling on the public to support the fight against smuggling by providing credible intelligence to the Customs Service. He also urged the media to help raise public awareness in the ongoing battle against smuggling.
