CAC Shu’aib showing the seized items to press men.
Story by Dili Utomi.
The Ogun 1 Command of the Nigeria Customs Service, a major border post into the Republic of Benin under the watch of the highly cerebral and tactically assiduous Comptroller of Customs officer, Ahmadu Bello Shu’aib has seemingly continued to act with great impetus while carrying out its core mandates of the protection of Nigeria’s economy, facilitation of trade and the generation of revenue.
The Command Friday had a press briefing at its premises and the CAC used the opportunity to expatiate on the performance of its critical functions over the past two months. While addressing the gathering of journalists, Comptroller Shu’aib detailed that on Thursday 14 March 2024, while on anti-smuggling operation along the border line, the Command operatives intercepted smuggled 940 rounds of live ammunition ingeniously concealed in sacks of cassava flakes, commonly known as garri in local parlance.
More pictures from the press briefing.
He explained the circumstances that surrounded the operation by stating that “the Command had been on its trail for more than 2 weeks, from the Republic of Benin, before it was eventually smuggled into the country”. Speaking further, he stated that during the trail of the cartel, the received intel revealed the level of surveillance mounted and security beef-up by the unscrupulous elements, to safeguard the items and evade arrest. He added that the superior security network of the Command eventually aided the seizure but lost the suspects, as the items were abandoned by the suspected smugglers who absconded in a bid to evade arrest.
The CAC’s words “the Command also recorded the seizures of 123 sacks and 3,172 parcels of cannabis sativa, commonly known as Indian Hemp; 380 pieces of donkey skin; 304 bales of used clothes; and 910 cartons of frozen poultry products, among others. These items were intercepted at the creeks, border lines and other strategic locations across Ogun State, through our intelligence network and 24 hours patrol/anti-smuggling activities by our operatives. The Duty Paid Value (DPV) of the total seizure amounted to Five Hundred Fifty Seven Million, One Hundred and Twenty Thousand, Eight Hundred and Twenty Eight Naira (N557,120,828.00) only”.
Comptroller Shu’aib added that “we are pleased to state that, in recent times, we carry(ied) out our operations with zero casualty and that is a great achievement in view of the circumstances. We value lives of our people and we try our best to safeguard it. I will like to state emphatically, that our operatives bear arms to protect their lives where and when necessary, any threat to their lives will not be treated with levity. Let me sound a note of warning to recalcitrant smugglers that their days are numbered. They will never go unpunished with their nefarious activities. We shall keep uncovering their antics and very soon, they will be arrested and be made to face the full wrath of the law”.
CAC Shu’aib pointing some seized items out at the press briefing.
The CAC appealed to well-meaning and patriotic Nigerians to join forces with the Command in its fight against smuggling of harmful substance, light weapon, arms and ammunition. He stressed that the items poses great threats to our national security and have the potential of destroying lives and properties within the shortest time possible. He emphasised that the Command is open to receiving intelligence and assure prospective partners of maximum security. He sought for joining of hands together to make the Nigerian society a safe and peaceful place to live.
On the revenue drive of the Command, the CAC reported that from January till date, the Command generated the total sum of Twenty Four Million, Two Hundred and Eighty Three Thousand, Seven Hundred and Eighty Eight Naira (N24,283,788.00) only as revenue. He emphasised that the sources of the revenue collection remain baggage assessment and auction sales of petroleum products.
Comptroller Shuaibu concluded his address, by appreciating the continuous support of the CGC, Bashir Adeniyi MFR and his management team. He underscored that the usual support plays a significant role in enhancing the Command’s operations and contributing immensely to its achievements. He commended the efforts of his gallant operatives who are making the seizures, as well as the concerted efforts of our Customs Intelligence Unit and Customs Police Unit in enhancing the Command’s operations. He recognises and appreciates the collaborative efforts of the various sister agencies and other critical stakeholders. Comptroller Shu’aib specifically acknowledges the objectivity and professionalism often displayed by members of the press in their reportage while urging then to continue with these qualities while carrying out their duties.
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