Wada

Nigerian Customs seize contraband worth over N769 million, issues stern warning 

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service, Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone ‘B’, has announced the seizure of contraband goods with a staggering duty-paid value exceeding N769 million.

This significant haul was disclosed by the Comptroller of the Unit, Comptroller Chedi Wada, during a press briefing held on March 28, 2023, at Kangiwa House, Kaduna State. 

Comptroller Wada revealed that a total of 98 seizures involving 21 different items were executed during the operational period.

The contraband items confiscated encompassed a diverse range, including foreign parboiled rice, spaghetti, secondhand clothing, premium motor spirit, refined vegetable oil, used vehicles, and various other goods. 

Among the notable seizures were 372 bags of rice concealed within flour sacks, intercepted by vigilant unit operatives, and subsequently deposited at the Kwara Area Command.

Stressing the pivotal role of intelligence networks, Comptroller Wada underscored the unit’s commitment to unearthing smuggling operations, despite adversarial tactics employed by die-hard smugglers. 

In a stern warning directed at smugglers, Wada asserted, “Those who persist in illegal trade activities cannot deter us from fulfilling our duty. They must either transition to legitimate commerce or face the full force of the law.”

Additionally, he cautioned against the alteration of Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs), highlighting the legal consequences and penalties outlined under the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023. 

Drawing attention to the gravity of VIN tampering, Wada urged citizens to meticulously inspect vehicle VINs to thwart smuggling attempts and uphold regulatory compliance.

He noted the government’s initiative to facilitate the regularisation of improperly imported vehicles within a 90-day window, further alleviating financial burdens on citizens through the suspension of penalties. 

The resolute stance of the Nigeria Customs Service, exemplified by the diligent efforts of FOU Zone ‘B’, underscores a concerted commitment to combating illicit trade and safeguarding national interests.

As the unit remains steadfast in its enforcement endeavors, stakeholders are urged to collaborate in upholding regulatory standards and fostering a culture of lawful commerce.