Customs seize truckloads of beans intended for illegal export amidst food shortages
By Sabiu Abdullahi
The Nigeria Customs Service, Seme Area Command, has intercepted a truckload of beans with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N61.4 million, intended for illegal exportation, amidst widespread food shortages across the nation.
Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Timi Bomodi, disclosed this during a press briefing on Tuesday, 5 March 2024, marking the Command’s first press briefing for the year.
According to Comptroller Bomodi, “In light of our present economic realities and the reported massive food shortages nationwide, and in line with the directive to prevent illegal grain export, the Command seized a truckload of beans, totaling 400 bags with a DPV of N61,450,000.00, stockpiled in a warehouse at one of the exit corridors at the border.”
He further stated that the intercepted items have been securely stored in the Government warehouse and will be auctioned to the public.
Highlighting the Command’s anti-smuggling efforts from January to February 2024, Comptroller Bomodi reported a series of successful interventions, including the seizure of 2,193 bags of foreign parboiled rice, 81,930 liters of PMS, 9 vehicles, 1,425 general merchandise, 265 parcels of cannabis sativa, and other narcotics, 149 packages of codeine, and 2 locally manufactured guns, with a combined DPV of N365,888,696.00.
Thirteen suspects were apprehended during these operations, with various dispositions such as administrative bail, transfer to the NDLEA, and custody by the Nigeria Police.
In terms of revenue generation, CAC revealed the Command’s yearly target of N7.875 billion, representing a significant increase from the previous year.
Despite challenges, the Command collected a substantial amount in January and February, reaching 88% of the expected revenue.
Regarding exports, the Command processed 184 declarations for 43 items weighing 65,185.96 MT, with a Free on Board (FOB) value of N13.057 billion. Additionally, revenue was collected for the Nigerian Export Supervision Scheme (NESS) and export surcharges.
Comptroller Bomodi reassured the public of the NCS’s commitment to its responsibilities, particularly amidst the current challenging times.