Onne Customs Command Intercepts ₦11.2 Billion Worth of Contraband in Major Seizure

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Area 2 Command, Onne, has seized a large cache of contraband worth an estimated ₦11.2 billion. Comptroller Mohammed Babandede announced the successful operation during a press briefing held on Thursday, July 25, 2024.

Comptroller Babandede highlighted that the operation was conducted in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Onne Port Chapter, following credible intelligence on suspicious 40-foot containers.

The joint effort led to the identification, positioning, and examination of the containers, revealing:

– 1,054,400 bottles of various cough syrups containing codeine (100ml)

– 9,100 pieces of chilly cutters

– 2,175,000 tablets of Hyergra (200mg)

– 1,300,000 tablets of Really Extra Diclofenac Pain Relief (50mg)

These seizures, according to Babandede, signify a major blow to the operations of those attempting to undermine the nation’s importation processes and public safety.

Despite the ongoing challenging security situation in the country, Babandede emphasised the command’s unwavering commitment to policing the Onne Sea Port and ensuring that unpatriotic elements do not succeed in their illegal activities. 

He reiterated that the NCS, under the leadership of Controller General Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, will not tolerate actions that compromise Nigeria’s economy and security.

Babandede expressed concerns over the persistence of some Nigerians in engaging in smuggling activities despite facing significant financial losses and the threat of imprisonment. 

He confirmed that the seized items, especially the cough syrups and tablets, would be handed over to the NDLEA for further investigation and appropriate action.

In addition to the crackdown on smuggling, Babandede announced that the Area 2 Command has also made notable strides in revenue generation. 

For the first half of the year, the command generated ₦312,094,367,124.58, which accounts for 50.5 percent of its annual target. 

In July alone, the command has already generated ₦48,056,806,692.00, with five working days remaining in the month.

Comptroller Babandede assured the public that the NCS Area 2 Command will continue to enhance its revenue profile while tirelessly protecting public health and safety. 

He urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities that could threaten the nation’s security and economic stability.