The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Adamawa/Taraba Area Command, has disclosed a total of 15 incidents of contraband seizures with a combined duty paid value of N13,352,100.
These seizures were the culmination of operations conducted from the onset of the previous month up to the present.
Among the confiscated items were 16,675 litres of petrol, meticulously concealed within 643×25L Jerry cans and three × 200L drums, alongside 20×50kg bags of foreign parboiled rice and a used V/Wagon Golf vehicle equipped with a large reconstructed fuel tank.
Addressing the press regarding these seizures, the Adamawa/Taraba Area Controller of the NCS, Salisu Kazaure Abdullahi, shed light on the persistent smuggling activities targeting fuel products, despite the removal of fuel subsidies.
He highlighted the lucrative nature of smuggling, fueled by high demand and elevated prices in neighboring countries such as Cameroon, Togo, and Benin Republic.
Abdullahi emphasized the formidable nature of fuel smuggling syndicates, noting their tenacity and considerable resources dedicated to sustaining their illicit operations.
Undeterred by regulatory measures, these syndicates continue to exploit gaps in enforcement to perpetuate their unlawful trade.
Nevertheless, Abdullahi reassured the public of the NCS’s unwavering commitment to combating smuggling activities.
He affirmed ongoing efforts to review strategies and enhance operational effectiveness in thwarting the nefarious activities of smugglers.
“We want to unequivocally tell the smugglers that the more they change tactics, the more we adapt ours. The truth will always prevail over falsehood,” he asserted confidently.
The determination exhibited by the NCS underscores its pivotal role in safeguarding national interests and protecting economic integrity.
Through vigilant enforcement and proactive measures, the NCS remains steadfast in its pursuit of justice and accountability, ensuring that perpetrators of illicit trade face the full consequences of their actions.
As the NCS continues to uphold its mandate, the public can rest assured that concerted efforts are underway to stem the tide of smuggling and preserve the rule of law.
In the face of persistent challenges, the resolve of the NCS remains resolute, unwavering in its commitment to upholding the nation’s security and prosperity.
