Customs Seizes N18.7bn Worth of Contraband in South-West in 2024

The e Federal Operations Unit, Zone A, of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has disclosed the seizure of 707 contraband items worth a total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N18,710,143,801.24 between January and December 2024. 

The seizures, which represent significant efforts to combat smuggling, were made across the South-West region.

Comptroller Kola Oladeji, the Customs Area Controller of the Unit, provided details during a press briefing in Lagos on Monday, highlighting the unit's ongoing efforts to combat illegal trade and protect the nation’s economy.

"We are committed to fighting smuggling and ensuring compliance with the NCS Act 2023," Comptroller Oladeji said. "Our operations have successfully thwarted attempts to undermine the nation’s economy and security through illicit cross-border trade."

Significant Seizures and Arrests

Among the notable contraband seized in 2024 were:

48,912 bags of foreign parboiled rice (50kg each)

191,975 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS)

7,861 kg of cannabis sativa

6,168 pieces of dry donkey skins

37,630 sachets of Tramadol

207 motor vehicles (some detained for short payment of duties)

6,755 cartons of foreign frozen poultry

1,433 bales of used clothes

1,773 used refrigerator compressors

317 cartons of illicit medicines

In total, 94 individuals were arrested in connection with these seizures, and six people have been convicted for various offenses related to smuggling.

“We have also launched ‘Operation Swift Sting,’ which has significantly disrupted the activities of smuggling cartels,” Oladeji added. “In just two weeks, we seized large quantities of contraband, including cannabis sativa and foreign rice.”

In addition to intercepting illegal goods, the Customs Service raised N1,012,783,437.21 in revenue by issuing demand notices for underpaid customs duties. This figure highlights the unit’s focus on ensuring proper tax collection and enforcement of import regulations.

“The importance of intelligence gathering and monitoring cannot be overstated,” Oladeji emphasized. “Through modern detection methods, we are consistently staying ahead of smugglers who seek to evade duties and regulations.”

Oladeji commended the support from other security agencies, the media, and the public in providing crucial information that aids the fight against smuggling. He also acknowledged the contributions of the officers and expressed appreciation for their dedication.

“We extend our deepest thanks to our officers for their tireless work in protecting the nation’s economy and security," he said. "We are also grateful to our Comptroller-General, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, whose unwavering support continues to make a significant impact in our efforts."