The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Area 2 Command in Onne, Rivers, has seized 12 containers filled with military and paramilitary equipment, along with illicit drugs, valued at N31 billion. Comptroller-General Bashir Adeniyi made this announcement during a press briefing in Onne, Rivers, on Wednesday.
The confiscated items include 4,800 pairs of military and paramilitary camouflage, rain boots, various rubber footwear, chilly cutters, and cough syrup containing codeine. Additionally, Tramadol and other illegal drugs were part of the haul, with a total duty value amounting to N31,200,688,142.
Adeniyi criticized the persistent violations of import regulations by individuals using this route for illicit activities. To address the issue, he declared a three-month emergency protocol at Onne Port, implementing stricter inspections on all suspect containers. He emphasized that if owners fail to present themselves for inspection, the NCS will open the containers to verify their contents. This measure, though temporary, is aimed at cleaning up the port and restoring its credibility.
Adeniyi stressed the importance of leaving no avenue unchecked in the fight against economic sabotage and promised collaboration with other security agencies to ensure this. He also warned that anyone found guilty of crimes against the nation would face the full force of the law.
Despite these stringent measures, Adeniyi reassured the business community and legitimate importers that the NCS remains committed to providing a safe and secure environment for genuine business activities. He emphasized that lawful shipments would receive timely and efficient processing during this period.
He attributed the command’s operational success to strong collaboration between security agencies and stakeholders and encouraged the public to contribute to national security by sharing relevant information.
