The Adamawa/Taraba State Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), has seized contraband goods worth ₦51,947,500 (approximately $58,000) in three weeks of intensified anti-smuggling operations.
According to the Command’s Comptroller, Garba Bashir, the intercepted goods include 29,825 liters of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) packed in 1,149 jerry cans and four 220-liter drums intended for smuggling out of Nigeria.
Authorities also confiscated three vehicles, one of which had a concealed compartment filled with PMS, as well as a motorcycle allegedly used for smuggling fuel into neighboring Cameroon.
Other seized items include eight drums and 35 jerry cans of Methylene Chloride, a dangerous chemical known as “Suck and Die,” commonly used in illegal activities, and eleven bales of secondhand clothing, which are restricted under Nigerian trade laws.
Comptroller Bashir emphasized that these seizures reflect the agency’s commitment to curbing illicit trade, protecting Nigeria’s economy, and dismantling smuggling networks.
“Illegitimate traders will not have a fresh air until they forsake economic sabotage and embrace genuine business that aligns with government fiscal policies,” he stated.
Due to its highly flammable nature, the seized PMS was auctioned to the public immediately, following standard operating procedures.
Revenue Growth
In addition to its enforcement efforts, the Command reported a total revenue collection of ₦173,609,941.31 ($194,000) for 2024, exceeding its target of ₦132 million by ₦41.6 million, marking a 23.97% increase.
The Nigeria Customs Service reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy on smuggling and pledged to intensify border security measures to combat illegal trade and protect national security.
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