Anti-smuggling: Customs Unit Seizes N10bn Contraband in 8 Months

It was a big blow for smugglers as the Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone A, Ikeja, of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), disclosed that it seized contraband worth N10bn in eight months as part of its anti-smuggling operations.

The items were seized between April 23 and December 10, 2025, according to the outgoing Area Controller of the Unit, Assistant Comptroller General Mohammed Shuaibu.

He made the disclosure during a handover ceremony to the new Controller Aliyu Gambo.
He said the Unit made a total of 476 interceptions, adding that the items were 38 trailers of foreign parboiled rice, 98 exotic tokunbo vehicles, 2,350 kg of Cannabis Sativa, 1,820 Jerrycans of PMS.
He said that on resumption, he had pledged to deploy his wealth of experience through intelligence driven operation.
He added, “ We have remained faithful to that commitment. I have witnessed tremendous dedication, resilience and team work from our officers.”
According to him, the collective effects resulted in huge successes in our anti-smuggling operations.
He added, ” The unit recorded a total of 476 interceptions including 761 seizures and items valued at N10.1billion, these include; 38 trailers of foreign parboiled rice, 98 exotic tokunbo vehicles, 2,350 kg of Cannabis Sativa, 1,820 Jerrycans of PMS, 15 assorted rifles, 4,841 rounds of ammunition, 2 industrial drones, 25kg of crystal metaphitamine, 4 cylinders of explosives each weighing 50kg, 20,000USD and 110CFA amounting to N31million which was handed over to the EFCC.
“A total of 38 suspects were arrested in connection with these seizures, additionally 8 containers of expired pharmaceutical products valued at N7.1billion were intercepted.
“Through its activities, the unit recovered a total sum of N419million from under-valuations, false declarations and subsequently issued Demand Notices where necessary.
“As I pass the baton to my successor, I am confident that the foundation we have built would continue to flourish. I urge all officers to extend the same spirit of cooperation, dedication and professionalism to the new Controller to strengthen the fight against smuggling” .
The new controller, Gambo commended Shuaibu for his achievements and commitment to service .

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