By James Ogunnaike, Abeokuta

Operatives of Ogun Area 1 Command of Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Idiroko, have intercepted contrabands worth N229, 112, 424, within seven days.

The Ogun 1 Area Controller, Comptroller Mohammed Salisu Shuaibu, disclosed this, while addressing newsmen at the command’s headquarters in Idiroko, in Ipokia local government area of the state.

According to Shuaibu, the contrabands seized included a 2,169 bags of foreign parboiled rice, each weighing 50kg alongside a 1,128 parcels of cannabis sativa commonly known as Indian Hemp were among the illegal goods.

Other items in the seizures included: 21 bales and 2 sacks of used clothing; 166 pieces of pneumatic tyres; 4, 360 cartons of imported shoes, as well as 250 kegs of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) popularly referred to as petroleum, each weighing 25 litres each.

The seizures, which Duty Payable Value (DPV) was put at a total amount of N229, 112, 424 were intercepted through intelligence gathering, “strategic surveillance and collaboration with patriotic Nigerians” between the 11th of December, 2024 when the new Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Mohammed Salisu Shuaibu assumed office at the command till date.

Shuaibu disclosed that the contrabands were intercepted at various locations, including Ilaro, Alamala-Rounda Axis of Abeokuta and Obada Oko of Abeokuta metropolis, as well as in the Imeko-Afon area.

Shuaibu also disclosed that one unit of foreign used 2012 model Toyota Highlander was also seized alongside 20 units of vehicles that were used as means of conveyance for the intercepted contrabands.

“Our operatives remain resolute in dismantling the smuggling networks that undermine our economy, endangered lives, and hinder local industries”.

He noted that the command remains vigilant and would continue to collaborate with sister security agencies to rid our society of this menace.

While warning smugglers and their collaborators to desist from illegal and unpatriotic business activities or face the full weight of the law, Shuaibu added that the command under his watch was prepared to match the activities of smugglers with “superior intelligence, unwavering commitment and lawful force where necessary”.

He reiterated the command’s commitment to continue to maintain an open-door policy, work with local communities towards encouraging legitimate trade that fosters economic development.