Onne Port Customs Seizes N46 Billion Worth of Contraband, Generates N550 Billion in Revenue
The Nigeria Customs Area 2 Command at Onne Port in Rivers State has made a groundbreaking seizure of contraband and unwholesome products worth over N46 billion. The intercepted items include hard substances, expired and fake pharmaceutical products, and other prohibited goods. This remarkable feat is a testament to the Command's unwavering commitment to combating illicit trade and ensuring public safety.
Among the seized items are:
Hard Substances : Codeine-based cough syrup, Tramadol, and other controlled substances
_Expired and Fake Pharmaceuticals_: Fake Gonorrhea antibiotics, Chlorphenamine, and other unregistered medications
_Prohibited Goods_: Donkey skin, a highly restricted item both locally and internationally
Comptroller Mohammed Babandade revealed that the Command has seized a total of 63 containers of contraband and unwholesome products this year, with a duty-paid value of over N130 billion. This achievement is a significant milestone in the fight against illicit trade.
"The recent interception comprises 21 containers, including 20 40-feet and one 20-feet containers, all laden with illicit goods," Babandade explained. "These seizures underscore our unwavering commitment to combating illicit medicine and ensuring the safety of public health."
The Onne Port Customs Command has also generated an impressive revenue of over N550 billion between January and November 2024, exceeding 89% of its annual target. This success is attributed to the Command's enhanced operational capabilities, intelligence gathering, and inter-agency collaboration.
Notable Achievements:
Seizure of 844 rifles and 112,500 rounds of live ammunition earlier this year
Declaration of a state of emergency at Onne Port to enhance security measures
Partnership with US Customs and Border Protection Agency to utilize Artificial Intelligence in curbing illicit activities
Commendation from the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons for outstanding efforts in intercepting illicit arms and ammunition
The Nigeria Customs Service has been making strides in combating illicit trade, and the Onne Port Customs Command's achievements serve as a model for other Commands.
"We appreciate the collaborative efforts of sister security agencies, including NAFDAC, DSS, NDLEA, and Quarantine Services, for their support in achieving these milestones," Babandade stated.
As the Nigeria Customs Service continues to intensify its efforts against illicit trade, the Onne Port Customs Command remains at the forefront of protecting national security and public health.
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