Seizes Eight Trailers of Rice, Detains Four Suspects
By Godwin Oritse & Providence Ayanfeoluwa
The Nigeria Customs Service‘s Federal Operations Unit (FOU) has escalated its crackdown on smuggling activities throughout the South-West region, reinforcing surveillance along critical transit routes and border areas.
During a comprehensive enforcement drive in September, Comptroller Mohammed Shuaibu reported the confiscation of more than 5,000 bags of imported parboiled rice-equivalent to eight fully loaded trailers. This action forms part of a revitalized strategy to stem the influx of banned commodities into Nigeria.
Shuaibu emphasized that the enhanced patrols, intelligence-driven seizures, and synchronized field operations underscore the Customs Service’s dedication to shielding domestic industries and upholding the Federal Government’s restrictions on foreign rice imports.
He further highlighted that beyond the monetary worth of the confiscated goods, the initiative aims to diminish illegal trade practices that undermine legitimate business activities across the region.
“By intercepting these contraband items before they reach the market, Customs is not only enforcing trade regulations but also contributing to the protection of Nigeria’s food security and revenue streams,” Shuaibu explained.
The Unit has maintained a strong operational presence along major smuggling corridors in Ogun, Oyo, and Lagos States. Several individuals are currently under investigation as part of ongoing enforcement efforts.
Among the seized items were 5,015 bags of 50kg foreign rice (equivalent to eight trailers), 15 used vehicles, approximately 431.8kg of Cannabis Sativa spread across 640 parcels, 460 jerrycans containing about 11,500 litres of Premium Motor Spirit, 143 bales of secondhand clothing, two large sacks of used shoes, one sack of used garments, 390 bottles of Codeine, 310 units of foreign-branded pharmaceuticals, 19 boxes of Tramadol, 210 used tires, and a 20-foot container (ONEU 2419369 FTC) holding 752 cartons of Calcium Lactate seized for false declaration.
These seizures took place across Ogun, Oyo, Ondo, and Lagos states. Four suspects have been apprehended and will be transferred to the appropriate authorities for further investigation and prosecution.
Shuaibu disclosed that the Duty Paid Value (DPV) of the confiscated goods amounted to N1.188 billion, reflecting the extensive scope of the operations.