DC Salisu confronts Economic Saboteurs, intercepts 1,128 Parcels of Cannabis, 2,169 bags of Rice, others

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun I Command, has made remarkable strides in its anti-smuggling efforts, intercepting goods with a total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N229,112,424.00 in its latest operations.

According to the Command’s spokesperson, Chief Superintendent of Customs, Hammed Bukoye Oloyede, the achievements were announced during the maiden press conference of the Acting Customs Area Controller, DC Mohammed Salisu, held at the Command’s Headquarters in Idiroko.

Addressing members of the press, DC Mohammed Salisu emphasized his commitment to professionalism, integrity, and a renewed focus on curbing smuggling activities and economic sabotage.

He attributed the Command’s successes to strategic intelligence gathering, surveillance, and collaboration with patriotic Nigerians, underscoring the support and leadership of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR.

The seizures made within the past few days include:

a. 2,169 bags of foreign parboiled rice weighing 50kg each.

b. 1,128 parcels of cannabis sativa, commonly known as marijuana, weighing 1,109.3kg.

c. 21 bales and 2 sacks of used clothes.

d. 166 pieces of pneumatic tyres.

e. 4,360 cartons of imported shoes.

f. 250 kegs of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), each weighing 25 litres.

g. 20 units of vehicles used for smuggling.

h. 1 unit of foreign-used vehicle, a 2012 model Toyota Highlander.

These items were intercepted at key smuggling hotspots, including Idiroko, Ilaro, the Alamala-Rounda axis, Obada Oko-Abeokuta axis, Abule Kazeem-Abeokuta axis, and Ijoun axis, among others.

The Acting CAC emphasized on the significance of the key seizures such as:

a. Foreign Rice: The illegal importation of rice undermines Nigeria’s efforts to achieve food self-sufficiency and disrupts 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.

b. Cannabis Sativa: 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.

c. Used Clothes: The 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.

DC Mohammed Salisu 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 assured the law-abiding public and legitimate traders in Ogun State that the Command’s operations are targeted exclusively at offenders, and that legitimate trade would be encouraged to foster economic growth.

In his concluding remarks, the Acting CAC expressed gratitude to the CGC, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, and the management team for the opportunity of making him an Area Controller.

He Commended officers and men of the Ogun I Command for their dedication and resilience, urging them to remain vigilant and disciplined.

As well called on the press to continue their critical role in educating the public on the dangers of smuggling and economic sabotage.

In addition, he stated thus, “Together, we will safeguard our economy, protect our communities, and uphold the integrity of the Nigeria Customs Service,” while reaffirming the Command’s commitment to its mandate.