The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone A, Ikeja has said that it intercepted three food trucks laden with 880 bags of white beans, 584 bags of onions and 18 bags of dry pepper that are export bound to the Republic of Benin.
The Comptroller, FOU Zone A, Comptroller Hussein Ejibunu, during a media briefing at the weekend, stated that the interception made in Ajilete/Idiroko road in Ogun State, is part of the Service’s contribution to combating food insecurity in the country especially at a time when food prices are skyrocketing.
According to him, instead of seizing the food items, the Unit ensured the trucks were re-directed to the Nigerian markets where they were sold to Nigerians by the owners.
He also stated that the move is coming in line with the federal government’s policies aimed at ensuring food security for its teeming population as well as address the high cost of living, the Comptroller General of Customs and the management are pursuing with vigor.
“This Unit has demonstrated its passion and willingness to cross the teeth and dot the eyes in fighting smuggling. That explains the drastic reduction in rice smuggling and fuel bunkering,” he added.
He however stated that, due to violation of various sections of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, and the federal government import and export prohibition guidelines, the Service vigorously and relentlessly prosecuted its anti-smuggling campaign which resulted in a total number of 93 seizures, arrest of 9 suspects made to prevent smuggling and protect the national economy.
He said these outcomes were achieved despite the unrepentant behaviours of economic saboteurs who deploy many tricks and antics to beat its checks but failed.
“A reference case is the smuggling of foreign parboiled rice in petroleum jerrycans along Ajilete in Ogun state which is not only illegal but also exposes the potential consumers to the risk of eating contaminated grains that have ingested poisonous properties possibly from premium motor spirit (PMS), diesel, or other petroleum products,” he added.
