The Federal Operations Unit Zone ‘A’ (FOU ‘A’) of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying the clampdown on economic saboteurs following the arrest of seven suspects in connection with various smuggling-related offences.
Acting Controller of the Unit, Deputy Comptroller Hussein Ejibunu, disclosed this while addressing journalists at the Command Headquarters in Ikeja, Lagos. He stated that the arrests were made during intelligence-driven operations carried out across the zone, covering Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ekiti, and Ondo States.
According to him, the suspects were apprehended for offences ranging from the illegal importation of foreign rice, smuggling of petroleum products, to the illicit trade in second-hand clothing and vehicles.
“FOU ‘A’ remains unwavering in its resolve to frustrate the efforts of economic saboteurs who undermine government revenue and pose threats to national security. These arrests are proof of our sustained surveillance and operational strategy,” Ejibunu said.
He further noted that the seized items, which include over 5,000 bags of foreign parboiled rice, 20,000 litres of petrol, and several used vehicles, had a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of over ₦850 million.
While assuring continued collaboration with other security agencies, the acting controller warned smugglers to desist from illegal activities or face the full wrath of the law.
The seven suspects, he said, are currently in custody and would be prosecuted after investigations are concluded.
