The Oyo/Osun Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted a large consignment of prohibited goods with a total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N4.106 billion.
The seized items include 2,440 wraps of cannabis sativa worth over N900 million , 10 containers of mercury, a pistol, six pistol magazines, a pump-action magazine and materials bearing the Nigeria Police Force identity.
The Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller Wale Adewole, disclosed the seizures during a press briefing where he highlighted the command’s recent enforcement activities across its area of jurisdiction.
According to the command, its officers also intercepted 60 detonating cords, 573 Nigeria Police Force crests and 92 yards of police camouflage uniform fabric.
Other prohibited items recovered include 48 packs of 225mg tramadol and foreign parboiled rice comprising 2,012 bags of 50kg and 550 bags of 25kg.
The command further seized foreign vegetable oil, sugar, 17 used vehicles and 10 other means of conveyance allegedly used in connection with smuggling activities.
Additional items intercepted were 1,150 used tyres, 101 used compressors, as well as quantities of used clothing and shoes.
Adewole said the seizures demonstrate the command’s commitment to enforcing Nigeria’s laws and protecting the country’s security and economic interests.
He noted that intercepting weapons, police-related materials and other restricted items was particularly important because such goods could potentially be diverted for criminal purposes.
The seizure of mercury also highlights concerns over the movement of hazardous and restricted chemicals, while the interception of narcotics prevents prohibited substances from entering communities.
The Customs Area Controller reaffirmed that the command would continue its enforcement operations against smuggling and other forms of illicit trade within its jurisdiction.
By Musekir Faisat OmolaraÂ
