Nigeria Customs Service Uncovers N506bn Worth of Contraband, Including Firearms, in Recent Seizures
The Apapa Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has announced a significant seizure in the last six months, including two pistols concealed inside a container. The contraband, with an estimated value of N506bn, also comprised prohibited drugs, used tires, rice, vegetable oil, and various other items.
The command’s Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Usman, revealed that a total of 16 seizures were recorded during this period, amounting to a duty paid value of N1.4bn. One suspect has been arrested in connection with the pistols, and investigations are ongoing.
The Area Controller, Auwal Mohammed, attributed the successful seizures to heightened compliance efforts. He commended the officers involved and called for continued dedication to revenue collection, trade facilitation, and strict enforcement of anti-smuggling activities.
Mohammed further disclosed that on July 20, 2023, the command achieved a historic feat, collecting N9.2bn in a single day. This is the highest daily collection ever recorded since the establishment of the port. From January 2023 to the present, the service has collected a total of N502bn and made 16 seizures valued at N1.4bn.
Under Mohammed’s leadership, the command has witnessed an increased level of compliance from importers, exporters, and their agents through the implementation of deliberate system profiling and manifest tracking. This approach ensures that traders are treated based on their previous transaction records, promoting efficiency and time-saving measures.
The Nigeria Customs Service remains committed to its efforts in combating smuggling activities and maintaining strict adherence to regulations.