NIGERIA CUSTOMS FOILS SMUGGLING, SEIZES N229M WORTH OF ITEMS IN BAUCHI

The Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone ‘D’, of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) in Bauchi has recorded a major success in its anti-smuggling drive, intercepting contraband goods with a total duty paid value of over N229 million.

The Comptroller of the Unit, Abdullahi Ka’ila, disclosed this at a press briefing on Friday in Bauchi, noting that the seizures were made through intelligence-led operations carried out over the past three weeks across key smuggling flashpoints within the unit’s jurisdiction.

Ka’ila explained that the operations were the outcome of detailed surveillance and coordinated enforcement based on credible intelligence, resulting in the interception of prohibited items smuggled into the country through illegal routes.

Among the items seized were one Toyota Urban Cruiser (2026 model), two Toyota Corolla Cross vehicles (2025 models), a Citroën Jumper bus and a Peugeot Boxer, all used as means of conveyance.

Other intercepted items included 14,750 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), 283 pieces of fresh donkey skin, 102 sacks of fried donkey meat, as well as several bales and sacks of second-hand clothing.

According to the comptroller, the cumulative duty paid value of the seizures stood at N229,422,669, describing the operation as a clear demonstration of the effectiveness of intelligence-driven enforcement and inter-agency collaboration.

He warned that smuggling poses serious risks to local industries, public health and economic stability, as it undermines legitimate businesses and deprives government of vital revenue needed for national development.

Ka’ila called on members of the public to support Customs operations by providing timely and credible information, stressing that community cooperation remains critical in the fight against economic sabotage.

He also commended the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, and the management team for their support, assuring Nigerians of the Service’s determination to intensify patrols and safeguard the economy against illicit trade.

Meanwhile, the seized donkey skins and meat have been handed over to the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) for further investigation and appropriate disposal.

Ka’ila added that investigations are ongoing to identify and prosecute those behind the smuggling syndicate.

Also speaking, the Bauchi State Coordinator of NESREA, Mr. Yahaya Saurayi, praised the Nigeria Customs Service for its vigilance in intercepting contraband, noting that the agency is responsible for coordinating and enforcing environmental standards and regulations in collaboration with relevant stakeholders within and outside Nigeria.