By David Akinmola
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has recorded a major breakthrough in its anti-smuggling operations, intercepting contraband goods valued at N3.1 billion and arresting 13 suspects within the last three weeks.
Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, disclosed this while briefing journalists on the Service’s latest enforcement activities across key border corridors. According to him, the seizures underscore the agency’s renewed commitment to curbing illicit trade and safeguarding the nation’s economy.
Items seized include foreign parboiled rice, premium motor spirit (PMS), poultry products, textiles, and other prohibited goods, intercepted during intensified operations in the North-West and South-West regions. Adeniyi noted that the crackdown was made possible through improved intelligence gathering, enhanced border surveillance, and collaboration with other security agencies.
“These arrests and seizures are a clear message to economic saboteurs that the Nigeria Customs Service will not relent in its mandate to protect revenue and national security,” the Customs chief said.
He further revealed that all suspects are in custody and undergoing investigation, with some cases already forwarded for prosecution. Adeniyi also urged citizens to support the fight against smuggling, warning that those engaged in the illicit trade risk losing both goods and freedom.
The Customs Service has, in recent months, stepped up enforcement following rising concerns over revenue leakages and the influx of banned products, which authorities say undermine local production and threaten economic stability.
