Customs intercept N769m contraband in Kaduna

The Nigeria Customs Service, Federal Operations Unit Zone B, Kaduna, has intercepted contraband worth N769 million in the past five weeks. The seized items include foreign parboiled rice, spaghetti, organic fertilizer, used cars, and various other contraband.

According to a statement by the Public Relations Officer of the command, Suleiman Isah, the Customs Area Controller, Dalha Chedi, revealed that a total of 98 seizures comprising 211 different items were made during the period under review.

Chedi highlighted that the unit intercepted 379 assorted general goods improperly exported at Daura, Katsina State, along with 400 cartons of unregistered organic fertilizer.

Among the major seizures was the discovery of 372 bags of offensive rice concealed in local flour sacks by smugglers.

Chedi elaborated on the seized contraband, which includes foreign parboiled rice, foreign spaghetti, secondhand clothing, premium motor spirit, foreign refined vegetable oil, used vehicles, pharmaceuticals, milky creamer, milk powder, and foreign used tyres, among others.

The Controller also warned citizens to scrutinize Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN) before purchasing vehicles, cautioning against smugglers who alter chassis numbers to evade arrest or manipulate duty payment.

He emphasized the commitment of the Customs Service to combat smuggling activities, citing the effective intelligence network employed in exposing rice smugglers.

Chedi reaffirmed the unit’s determination despite attempts by smugglers to hinder their operations through attacks and illegal demonstrations.

“We remain resolute and will not relent as there is no amount of trick, blackmail, or orchestrated attacks that will dampen our resolve,” he stated firmly.

The Customs Service urged citizens to cooperate with law enforcement agencies in combating smuggling activities and ensuring the safety and security of the nation.