The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) International Special Services has commended the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) for its sustained collaboration in disrupting the operations of international crime syndicates.

This partnership has led to the interception of 65 stolen vehicles and over 1,000 packages of synthetic cannabis smuggled from Canada into Nigeria through multiple ports, airports, and unapproved routes.

The RCMP also praised the unwavering commitment of the NCS to border security and its role in combating transnational organised crime through strategic partnerships and intelligence-driven operations.

This recognition follows the recent recovery of 12 luxury vehicles by the RCMP Liaison Office in Lagos, in addition to 53 previously recovered, bringing the total number of stolen Canadian vehicles intercepted in Nigeria to 65.

The High Commissioner of Canada to Nigeria, Pasquale Salvaggio, stated that these recoveries were made possible through strong collaboration among the NCS, RCMP, Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), and Interpol Nigeria.

During an official ceremony at the Canadian High Commission in Abuja, Salvaggio presented an award of recognition to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, for his leadership and the pivotal role of the NCS in combating cross-border crimes.

“The support of the NCS, in collaboration with Canadian and Nigerian law enforcement agencies, has helped disrupt key international crime networks and safeguard the integrity of our borders,” Salvaggio said.

Representing the RCMP, the Director General of International Special Services, Mr Liam Price, acknowledged that the partnership with the NCS has significantly strengthened Canada’s international enforcement efforts and remains crucial in the fight against organised criminal networks.

Price noted that the recognition is a testament to the Nigeria Customs Service’s growing reputation as a reliable partner in international border security. He emphasised the importance of sustained inter-agency collaboration in combating illicit trade and transnational crime.

In his response, the Comptroller-General of Customs expressed appreciation to the Government of Canada and reaffirmed the NCS’s commitment to strengthening international cooperation in the fight against illicit trade.

“This recognition reflects the success of our collaborative approach and strong partnerships with the RCMP, CBSA, EFCC, NDLEA, and Interpol. Together, we have delivered tangible results that benefit both our countries and global trade,” Adeniyi stated.