Customs Nets N18bn Worth of Contraband, 94 Arrests in 2024 Crackdown"
Kathy Kyari
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU), has recorded a major success in its fight against smuggling, confiscating contraband goods valued at over N18 billion and arresting 94 suspects as of the last week of December 2024.
This was disclosed on Monday by the Unit’s Comptroller, Kola Oladeji, during a press briefing in Lagos. He attributed the success to the recently launched “Operation Swift Sting,” which, within just two weeks, has made significant strides in curbing illegal cross-border trade.
The Comptroller highlighted some of the major items seized, including a substantial amount of cannabis sativa, 4,010 bags of 50kg foreign parboiled rice, Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), and other banned goods.
Oladeji stated: “Operation Swift Sting is effectively disrupting smuggling operations while facilitating compliant trade. Our commitment to combating smuggling and ensuring adherence to the provisions of the NCS Act 2023 has led to significant seizures and arrests from January 2024 to date."
He went on to emphasize the Service’s dedication to protecting Nigeria’s economy and security: “These achievements highlight our determination to safeguard the nation’s economy and security from the threats posed by illicit cross-border trade.”
Between January and December 2024, the Unit carried out 707 seizures with a total duty-paid value of N18.7 billion. Items seized included 48,912 bags of foreign parboiled rice, 191,975 liters of PMS, 7,861 kilograms of cannabis sativa, 6,168 pieces of dried donkey skins, 37,630 sachets of Tramadol, 207 vehicles—some detained for duty underpayment—6,755 cartons of foreign frozen poultry products, 1,433 bales of used clothes, 1,773 units of used refrigerator compressors, and 317 cartons of illicit medicaments.
Oladeji also disclosed that additional revenue was recovered through document checks and demand notices issued for consignments with underpaid duties.
However, he warned that smugglers are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their concealment methods, posing a significant risk to the nation’s economy and security. He called on Nigerians to join the fight by providing accurate and timely information to aid Customs’ anti-smuggling efforts.
“Our fight against smuggling is not just about enforcement but also raising awareness about its dangers and the importance of compliance with Customs regulations,” Oladeji said.
He concluded by reiterating Customs’ commitment to protecting the nation: “We remain resolute in protecting the nation’s economy, security, and health through coordinated efforts with relevant stakeholders.”
These developments underline the determination of the Nigeria Customs Service to tackle smuggling head-on and ensure strict compliance with trade regulations.
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