By Ifeyinwa OBI
Sequel to the failed attempt by yet to be identified persons to smuggle 13 containers laden with deadly weapons into the country, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), has launched a special anti-smuggling team saddled with the responsibility of stepping up security at all entry points in the country.

Kick starting the operation, code named ‘Operation Cinnaka’, yesterday at the Customs headquarters in Abuja, the Comptroller-General of the NCS, Dikko Abdullahi, stressed that the measure became imperative because the perpetrators of the failed act might try other means to address their failure.
“I am sure you have not forgotten the recent failed attempts to clear 13 containers laden with deadly weapons from our ports, while investigations are ongoing, we believe that such enemies of Nigeria would like to try other means and routes to bring contrabands into the country,” Dikko stated.

To avert any further attempt, “a crack team of anti-smuggling operatives, well equipped with two helicopters, five bullet proof patrol vehicles, 40 Hilux jeeps, boats and a strong arsenal of arms and ammunition, have been put in place to ensure total blockage of the air, land and water.”

The Customs boss noted that the desperation of criminally minded elements to harm the country necessitated the war against arms smugglers in particular, and smugglers of other illicit goods in general.

Sequel to the failed attempt by yet to be identified persons to smuggle 13 containers laden with deadly weapons into the country, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), has launched a special anti-smuggling team saddled with the responsibility of stepping up security at all entry points in the country.

Kick starting the operation, code named ‘Operation Cinnaka’, yesterday at the Customs headquarters in Abuja, the Comptroller-General of the NCS, Dikko Abdullahi, stressed that the measure became imperative because the perpetrators of the failed act might try other means to address their failure.

“I am sure you have not forgotten the recent failed attempts to clear 13 containers laden with deadly weapons from our ports, while investigations are ongoing, we believe that such enemies of Nigeria would like to try other means and routes to bring contrabands into the country,” Dikko stated.

To avert any further attempt, “a crack team of anti-smuggling operatives, well equipped with two helicopters, five bullet proof patrol vehicles, 40 Hilux jeeps, boats and a strong arsenal of arms and ammunition, have been put in place to ensure total blockage of the air, land and water.”

The Customs boss noted that the desperation of criminally minded elements to harm the country necessitated the war against arms smugglers in particular, and smugglers of other illicit goods in general.