Shuaibu, New Ogun Customs Controller Seizes 1,128 Parcels of Cannabis, 2,169 Bags of Rice, Others
Barely one week of assuming office as Acting Controller of Ogun 1 Customs Command, Deputy Comptroller Mohammed Salisu Shuaibu has stirred the smugglers gang with seizures worth N229m comprising illicit drugs, rice, vehicles and other items.
Addressing the media in his maiden press briefing at Idiroko Border, DC Shuaibu brokedown the seizures to include 2,169 bags of foreign parboiled rice weighing 50kg each;
1,128 parcels of cannabis sativa, commonly known as marijuana, weighing 1,109.3kg;
21 bales and 2 sacks of used clothes;166 pieces of pneumatic tyres;4,360 cartons of imported shoes;250 kegs of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), each weighing 25 litres;20 units of vehicles used for smuggling and 1 unit of foreign-used vehicle, a 2012 model Toyota Highlander.
According to a press release issued by Hammed Bukoye Oloyede, a Chief Superintendent of Customs and the command’s Public Relations Officer, Shuaibu sent a stern warning to smugglers to steer clear of the area.
He disclosed that the seized items were intercepted at key smuggling hotspots, including Idiroko, Ilaro, the Alamal-Rounda axis, Obada Oko-Abeokuta axis, Abule Kazeem-Abeokuta axis, and Ijoun axis, among others.
The release gave an insight into some seized items and rationale behind the seizures.
“Foreign Rice. The illegal importation of rice undermines Nigeria’s efforts to achieve food self-sufficiency and disrupts local rice production. Smuggling of this staple is viewed as economic sabotage, and the Command remains steadfast in its resolve to bring perpetrators to justice.
“Cannabis Sativa. The smuggling of cannabis poses severe risks to public health and safety, fueling criminal activities and jeopardizing community well-being. The Ogun I Command is working closely with other security agencies to eliminate this menace.
“Used Clothes. The importation of used clothes is prohibited due to health hazards and its negative impact on the local textile industry, which has the potential to create jobs for millions of Nigerians.
“DC Mohammed Salisu issued a stern warning to smugglers and their collaborators, urging them to desist from illegal activities or face the full weight of the law.
He assured the law-abiding public and legitimate traders in Ogun State that the Command’s operations are targeted exclusively at offenders, and that legitimate trade would be encouraged to foster economic growth.
“In his concluding remarks, the Acting CAC expressed gratitude to the CGC, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, and the management team for the opportunity of making him an Area Controller.
He Commended officers and men of the Ogun I Command for their dedication and resilience, urging them to remain vigilant and disciplined.
He also called on the press to continue their critical role in educating the public on the dangers of smuggling and economic sabotage. In addition, he stated thus, “Together, we will safeguard our economy, protect our communities, and uphold the integrity of the Nigeria Customs Service,” while reaffirming the Command’s commitment to its mandate.
