By Modinat Abiodun, Lagos
The Apapa Command of Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has seized 16 containers loaded with contraband goods valued at over ₦10 billion.
This information was disclosed by the Comptroller-General of Customs Adewale Adeniyi MFR, at a press briefing in Lagos on Monday. He revealed that, “The seizures were the result of intelligence-driven, risk-based operations conducted across Nigerian ports, with enhanced deployment of non-intrusive inspection technologies such as scanners.”
The Customs boss also reaffirmed, “The ban on the clearance of pharmaceutical products from bonded terminals though importers have right to choose where their containers should go but that developments from bonded terminals would not allow such for now.”
He continued, “One of the seized containers was a 40-foot container (MRSU6407089), initially cleared but later re-examined jointly by Customs and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). The second inspection uncovered; 101kg of “Colorado Loud”, a potent Canadian strain of cannabis; Two fully operational rifles; 25 cartridges; A Smith & Wesson pistol with 55 rounds of ammunition and Additional weapon accessories.”
The CGC asserted, “The container’s consignee, a Lagos-based individual, is currently under investigation.The operation also led to the interception of; 7 containers of expired and prohibited drugs; 3 containers of expired food items, including margarine; 3 containers of banned used clothing; 2 containers of unregistered expired tablets; Multiple containers of frozen poultry (1,290 and 1,296 sacks respectively); 305 cartons of counterfeit toothpaste infringing on a Nigerian brand and lacking NAFDAC registration. “
“Authorities have arrested five suspects; Three have been charged and remanded in prison; Two are on administrative bail pending court appearances.”
In addition, “Two additional 40-foot containers, linked to earlier seizures and tracked over time, were intercepted upon arrival. Investigators believe these are part of a coordinated smuggling network.”
The NCS has pledged continued collaboration with NAFDAC, NDLEA, and international customs organizations to dismantle the syndicates behind the illicit trade.
His words: “We will not allow Nigeria to become a dumping ground for criminals who threaten our collective peace and security. “
