The Federal Operations Unit, Zone A, of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), has announced that it recorded 707 seizures valued at ₦18.7 billion in Duty Paid Value (DPV) from January to December 2024.
Speaking at a press briefing in Lagos, Comptroller Kola Oladeji, the Customs Area Controller of the Unit, disclosed that 94 suspects were arrested in connection with the seizures, with six already convicted for various offenses. He attributed these achievements to the Service’s unwavering efforts to combat smuggling and enforce compliance with the NCS Act 2023.
Oladeji highlighted the success of the recently introduced “Operation Swift Sting,” which has significantly enhanced anti-smuggling activities.
The operation has led to major breakthroughs, including the seizure of contraband items such as cannabis sativa, foreign parboiled rice, Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), and other illicit goods. He described the operation as a game-changer, putting intense pressure on smuggling cartels while promoting compliant trade practices.
In addition to the seizures, the Unit also generated over ₦1 billion in revenue through careful checks and demand notices issued for underpaid customs duties. Oladeji emphasized the importance of intelligence and modern tools in detecting and preventing smuggling operations that could harm the nation’s economy and security.
The Comptroller commended the collaboration of security agencies, media practitioners, and other stakeholders, as well as the public, for their support in the fight against smuggling. He also lauded the efforts of Customs officers, describing them as vital to the Service’s achievements in protecting the country’s economy, security, and health.
Expressing gratitude to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, for his support, Oladeji reaffirmed the Service’s resolve to continue its campaign against smuggling and illicit trade.
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