Nigerian Customs Foil Smuggling Of Military Camouflage And Drugs In Rivers

Comptroller-General of Customs, Mr. Bashir Adeniyi, disclosed this during a press briefing on Wednesday in Onne, Rivers State.

The intercepted goods include 4,800 pairs of military and paramilitary camouflage uniforms, rain boots, rubber footwear, chilly cutters, and cough syrup containing codeine. Additionally, Tramadol and other illicit drugs were among the confiscated items, all with a combined duty value of N31,200,688,142.

Adeniyi expressed concern over the persistent violation of import regulations by individuals using this route for illegal trade. In response, he announced a three-month emergency protocol at Onne Port to address the issue. During this period, the NCS will conduct thorough inspections of all suspicious containers.

“If the owners fail to present themselves for inspection, we will open the containers to verify their contents. This is a temporary but essential measure to clean up the port and restore its integrity,” Adeniyi stated.

He emphasized that the NCS, in collaboration with other agencies, is committed to fighting economic sabotage and will enforce the law against anyone involved in criminal activities.

Adeniyi reassured the business community and legitimate importers of the NCS’s commitment to providing a safe environment for lawful business operations. He added that genuine shipments would receive prompt and efficient attention during this crackdown.

The comptroller-general credited the command’s success to strong collaboration between security agencies and stakeholders, while urging the public to assist in maintaining security by sharing relevant information.