Nigeria Customs Service Cracks Down on Smuggling: ₦1.28 Billion Worth of Contraband Seized in Two Weeks


Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) In a bold and highly successful offensive fight against smuggling has announced the seizure of contraband goods valued at ₦1.28 billion within just two weeks. The operation, led by the Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone A, reflects the agency’s intensified drive to protect the Nigerian economy and promote trade.

Between May 19 and May 31, 2025, the FOU Zone A conducted 46 targeted interceptions across Lagos and border states, uncovering a wide array of illegally imported goods. Some of the most significant recoveries include

Cannabis sativa concealed in a truck compartments

Towels

7 Mitsubishi Canters, 5 Toyota Hiace buses, 3 Mini Shuttle buses (all dismantled for concealment), and 11 used vehicles (commonly known as Tokunbo

1,665kg of Cannabis Sativa (Indian Hemp) hidden in concealed truck compartments

2,051 bags of foreign parboiled rice (equivalent to four trailer-loads)

4,000 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS)

1,263 used tyres

Assorted second-hand goods including electronics, clothing, and household items

Additionally, seven suspects were arrested in connection with these smuggling activities.

Beyond seizing goods, the NCS also intensified its compliance checks. Through the issuance of Demand Notices (DNs) for improperly declared consignments, the FOU Zone A recovered ₦48.34 million in lost revenue during the two-week period.

Speaking at a press briefing held at the Unit’s office in Lagos headquarters, Comptroller Mohammed Shuaibu emphasized the importance of balancing enforcement with legitimate trade facilitation.

“As the lead agency in border security, we are conscious of our dual role. We must protect the economy while allowing legitimate trade to thrive,” he said.



He commended the officers’ gallantry and resilience and pledged continued efforts to dismantle smuggling networks and deter economic saboteurs.

In line with inter-agency collaboration, the seized cannabis sativa has been handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA)  for further investigation and prosecution.

In his efforts to improve officers  morale tthe reintroduced the monthly parades and weekly sporting activities as part

Hand over the cannabis sativa to NDLEA Official
 

of a broader initiative to maintain operational readiness.

The recent successes recorded by the Nigeria Customs Service’s FOU Zone A. underscore its unwavering resolve to combat smuggling, enforce trade regulations, and recover revenue. With over ₦1.28 billion in seizures and ₦48.34 million recovered, the Unit is not only safeguarding national revenue but also reinforcing public confidence in border enforcement.

As operations intensify, stakeholders can expect even stronger outcomes in the fight against illicit trade.

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