In a resolute display of its commitment to eradicating corruption, the Tin Can Island Port Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has handed over $54,330, believed to be bribe money related to a Tramadol smuggling operation, to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
This move aligns with the unequivocal anti-corruption stance of the Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi.
The Customs Area Controller (CAC) of the Tin Can Island Port Command, Dera Nnadi, officiated the transfer of the bribe money to Michael Wetkas, the Lagos Zonal Commander of the EFCC.
Nnadi revealed that the seized Tramadol shipments were deceptively declared as electrical appliances, with a purported value exceeding N856 million, a ruse employed to mask their true nature.
The accompanying cash was apparently offered as a bribe to compromise customs officers involved in the inspection process.
This illicit act starkly violates Section 233 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act (NCAA) 2023.
CAC Nnadi commended the customs officers who remained steadfast in their commitment to ethical and lawful practices, emphasizing their role in upholding national security.
He urged continuous compliance from port users and assured them that the NCS, in collaboration with agencies like the EFCC, will persistently thwart criminal activities within the port.
Nnadi took a moment to express gratitude to Comptroller Oloyede, noting that the successful seizure occurred under his leadership, portraying him as an exemplary figure within the NCS.
He revealed that the two suspects linked to the containers in question are currently under investigation by the National Agency for Food Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) for potential prosecution.
Upon receiving the bribe money, Michael Wetkas of the EFCC hailed the accomplishment as a triumph not only for the country but for all security agencies involved. He specifically commended the NCS officers responsible for the achievement.
Wetkas went on to praise the Comptroller General for issuing a commendation letter, acknowledging the six customs officers who resisted pressure and inducements from the drug traffickers.
Assuring continued collaboration, Wetkas emphasized the changing landscape of agency operations, asserting that working in isolation is now outdated.
The EFCC, NCS, and sister agencies have entered a new era of closer collaboration, reinforcing their collective efforts to combat illicit activities and safeguard national interests.
