Pix: Comptroller-General of Customs is Bashir Adewale Adeniyi
Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, Ogun Area 1 Command, says it seized illegal goods worth N229,112,424 million within seven days in various locations in the state.
The new Area Comptroller, Mr Ahmadu Shuaibu, disclosed this at a news conference on Thursday in Idiroko, Ogun.
Shuaibu said the seizure, with Duty Paid Value, DPV of N229.112,424, was made through intelligence gathering, strategic surveillance and collaboration with some patriotic Nigerians.
He stated that the seizure was made at some strategic locations, including Idi-Iroko, Ilaro, All-around Axis, Obada Oko, Abule Kazeem-Abeokuta Axis and Imeko-Afon, all of which are believed to be hotspots for smuggling.
“Our operatives remain resolute in dismantling the smuggling networks that undermine our economy, endanger lives and hinder local industries.
“In addition, the command remains vigilant and will continue to collaborate with sister security agencies to rid our society of this menace,” he said.
Shuaibu listed the seized items to include: 2,169 bags of foreign parboiled rice weighing 50kg each, 1,128 parcels of hemp weighing 1,109kg, 21 bales and two sacks of used clothes as well as 166 pieces of pneumatic tyres.
Other items were: 4,360 cartons of imported shoes, 250 kegs of premium motor spirit, PMS, 20 vehicles used for conveyance and one foreign used vehicle, with a 2012 model Toyota Highlander SUV.
The area comptroller said the illegal goods seized pose a significant threat to Nigeria’s economy and jeopardize the safety and security of the society.