From Laide Raheem, Abeokuta
Operatives of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun I Command, have intercepted and seized prohibited goods smuggled into the country through land borders with the Republic of Benin.
The command also intercepted and seized over a thousand parcels of Cannabis sativa, otherwise known as India Hemp.
The Acting Area Controller in charge of Ogun 1 Command, Mohammed Salisu, who made this known while briefing newsmen during his maiden press conference at the Command’s headquarters in Idiroko, Ogun State, described the seizure as a remarkable stride in the command’s anti-smuggling efforts.
Salisu, who assumed office recently listed the seized goods to include 2,169 bags of 50kg foreign parboiled rice; 1,128 parcels of cannabis sativa, commonly known as marijuana, weighing 1,109.3kg; 21 bales and 2 sacks of foreign used clothes; 166 pieces of pneumatic tyres; 4,360 cartons of imported shoes; 250 kegs of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), each weighing 25 litres; 20 units of vehicles used for smuggling; and 1 unit of a foreign-used vehicle, a 2012 model Toyota Highlander.
While putting the total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N229,112,424.00 on the intercepted items, he disclosed that the prohibited goods were intercepted at key smuggling hotspots in Ogun State, such as Idiroko, Ilaro, the Alamala-Rounda axis, Abeokuta, Obada Oko-Abeokuta axis, Abule Kazeem-Abeokuta axis, and the Ijoun axis, among others.
He explained that the illegal importation of rice will continue to undermine Nigeria’s efforts to achieve food self-sufficiency and disrupt local rice production.
“Smuggling of this staple is viewed as economic sabotage, and the Command remains steadfast in its resolve to bring perpetrators to justice.
“The smuggling of cannabis poses severe risks to public health and safety, fueling criminal activities and jeopardizing community well-being. The Ogun I Command is working closely with other security agencies to eliminate this menace. On the other hand, importation of used clothes is prohibited due to health hazards and its negative impact on the local textile industry, which has the potential to create jobs for millions of Nigerians”, Salisu stated.
He attributed the successes recorded by Ogun 1 Area Command to strategic intelligence gathering, surveillance, and collaboration with patriotic Nigerians as well as the support and leadership of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.
The Ogun Customs boss, however, reiterated his Command’s commitment to professionalism, integrity, and a renewed focus on curbing smuggling activities and economic sabotage.
He issued a stern warning to smugglers and their collaborators, urging them to desist from illegal activities or face the full weight of the law.
He further assured the law-abiding public and legitimate traders in Ogun State that the Command’s operations are targeted exclusively at offenders, and that legitimate trades would be encouraged to foster economic growth.
“I want to express my gratitude to the CGC, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, and the management team for the opportunity of appointing me as the Area Controller. I want to also commend officers and men of the Ogun I Command for their dedication and resilience, I hereby urge you to remain vigilant and ensure discipline.
“To the esteemed members of the Fourth Estate of the Realm, I salute you and I want to call on you to continue playing a critical role in educating the public on the dangers of smuggling and economic sabotage. Together, we will safeguard our economy, protect our communities, and uphold the integrity of the Nigeria Customs Service”, the Customs boss submitted.