The Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone D of the Nigeria Customs Service has intercepted smuggled goods valued at ₦229,422,669 in Bauchi State, in a major anti smuggling operation carried out on January 23rd, 2026.
Speaking during a press briefing, the Controller of the Unit, Comptroller Shuaibu Kaila, said the operation, which spanned over three weeks, was driven by credible intelligence and meticulous monitoring of suspected smuggling routes. The effort culminated in the interception of several prohibited and uncustomed goods believed to have entered the country through illegal routes.
According to him, Items seized during the operation included one Toyota Urban Cruiser (2026 model), two Toyota Acura Cross vehicles (2025 models), a Citroën Jumper bus, and a Peugeot Boxer, which were used as means of conveyance. Other items recovered were 14,750 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), 283 pieces of fresh donkey skin, 102 sacks of dried donkey meat, and several bales and sacks of second hand clothing.
Comptroller Kaila noted that the seizures underscored the importance of intelligence driven enforcement and inter agency collaboration in combating smuggling. He commended the officers and men of the Unit, particularly those in Zondi and Bochi, for their dedication and professionalism in curbing illicit trade along border corridors and inland routes.
He warned that smuggling poses serious threats to local industries, public health, and national economic stability, stressing that it undermines legitimate businesses and deprives the government of vital revenue needed for development.
The Customs boss urged members of the public and stakeholders to support the agency by providing credible information and cooperating with security agencies to stem the tide of illegal trade.
Kaila disclosed that the seized donkey skins and meat would be handed over to the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) for further investigation and disposal in line with established regulations, while investigations were ongoing to apprehend those behind the smuggling network.
He also expressed appreciation to the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, for his leadership and continuous support to the Unit, assuring that the backing would be justified through intensified enforcement activities.
Reaffirming the commitment of the Nigeria Customs Service, Kaila said the agency would continue to strengthen intelligence gathering, enhance patrols, and boost operational capacity to safeguard the nation’s economy from illicit importation and smuggling.
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