The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone ‘A’, has intensified its anti-smuggling efforts, arresting 94 suspects and seizing goods valued at over ₦18 billion within two weeks. The Area Controller of the unit, Kola Oladeji, announced this during a press briefing in Lagos, attributing the success to the recently launched “Operation Swift Sting.” He stated that the initiative reflects the agency’s commitment to protecting the economy and national security by tackling illicit cross-border activities.
Oladeji highlighted the seizures made during the operation, which included significant quantities of cannabis sativa, 4,010 bags of foreign parboiled rice in 50kg sacks, Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), and other contraband items. He noted that six of the arrested suspects have already been convicted for various offenses, while others are undergoing prosecution. According to him, the operation has created immense pressure on smuggling networks and simultaneously facilitated compliant trade practices.
The Area Controller disclosed that the unit has recorded 707 seizures since January 2024, with a total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of ₦18.7 billion. The confiscated items include 48,912 bags of foreign parboiled rice, 191,975 liters of PMS, 7,861 kilograms of cannabis sativa, and a range of other prohibited goods such as donkey skins, frozen poultry, and illicit medicaments. Vehicles intercepted for short payment of duty were later released after the outstanding amounts were paid.
In addition to the seizures, Oladeji revealed that the unit generated over ₦1 billion in revenue by issuing demand notices to importers who attempted to evade full customs duties. He emphasized that the NCS is leveraging modern intelligence tools to detect smuggling operations, some of which employ sophisticated concealment methods. He called on Nigerians to support the service’s efforts by providing timely information about illicit trade activities.
The Area Controller also highlighted the broader impact of smuggling on the nation’s economy and security, stressing the need for sustained public awareness campaigns. He assured Nigerians that the NCS remains resolute in its mission to protect the country’s economy, security, and health through coordinated efforts with stakeholders.
Oladeji expressed gratitude to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, for his leadership and to security agencies, media practitioners, and the public for their collaboration. He reaffirmed the NCS’s commitment to transparency and efficiency in addressing smuggling, stating that these achievements reflect the agency’s determination to uphold its mandate.
