Customs Intercepts N242m Truckloads Of Rice, Cannabis, Others In Ogun

The Ogun 1 Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Idiroko, Ogun State, on Friday, said it intercepted about five trucks of foreign parboiled rice, canabis sativa and used tyres (Tokunbo) with duty paid value of N242million allegedly smuggled into the country from the neighbouring Benin Republic.

At a press briefing in Abeokuta, the state capital, the acting Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, said the seizures were intercepted at various locations, including Papa/Ajegunle, Ilaro Road, Imasayi/Joga Road, Ijebu Ode axis, and Odogbolu bushpath along Ijebu Ode Road, all in Ogun State.

LEADERSHIP gathered that the items intercepted by the Command include; 1,436 used Pneumatic tyres, 53 sacks, and 569 parcels of Cannabis Sativa and 3,149 bags of foreign parboiled rice.

According to him, the seizures underscored the Service’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation from potential road accidents and harmful substances.

The Customs CG, however, assured that the Service would continue to intercept the perilous goods and contrabands as much as they are smuggled into the country.

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“We gather here today to address a pressing concern – the importation of foreign-used Pneumatic Tyres, more commonly known as Tokunbo tyres. These are ring-shaped protective coverings made of rubber and filled with compressed air, typically used in foreign countries. Regrettably, they are deemed unsuitable for our highways.

“A significant number of these tyres have exceeded their recommended lifespan from their manufacturing date. According to safety experts, good-quality pneumatic tyres are safe for use for only four years from the date of manufacturing. Any usage beyond this duration poses a significant risk to motorists and jeopardises their lives.

“In a previous press conference held on August 7, 2023, we drew attention to the grave issue of Cannabis Sativa, commonly known as marijuana or Indian hemp. This psychoactive drug is derived from the cannabis plant and has seen a concerning rise in abuse within Nigerian society, especially among our youths.

“We highlighted the ingenious tactics employed by those engaged in this nefarious trade, including smuggling through land borders, utilising creeks, and even resorting to smuggling via air routes. We reaffirm the Nigeria Customs Service’s commitment to protecting society from the entry of harmful substances and ensuring the safety and well-being of Nigerians,” he stated.

Adeniyi also pledged the Service’s resolve to curb illicit trade, safeguard the roads from dangerous tyres and protect the youths from the devastating effects of illicit drugs.

“Today, we are delighted to report that our commitment to our citizens remains steadfast, as we fulfil our statutory obligations and shield our beloved nation from the scourge of illicit drugs. Our officers’ relentless efforts and unwavering dedication in Zone A, specifically the Ogun 1 Area Command, have borne fruit, leading to the interception of Cannabis Sativa, used Pneumatic Tyres, and vehicles laden with 50kg bags of foreign parboiled rice.

“Between September 18 and September 30, 2023, the officers of the Ogun 1 Area Command seized 1,436 used pneumatic tyres, 53 sacks, and 569 parcels of Cannabis Sativa, weighing a total of 1,179 kilograms. Additionally, they apprehended 3,149 bags of foreign parboiled rice, each weighing 50 kilograms, alongside 32 vehicles used for conveyance, among other items. These seizures’ have a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N242milliin

“It is essential to highlight that these seizures are a testament to our renewed determination and strategic deployment of both human and material resources. Our commitment to protecting Nigerians from the audacious actions of daredevil smugglers remains unwavering.

“In conclusion, we reaffirm our dedication to our duty and pledge to ensure all Nigerians’ safety and well-being. We are resolute in our mission to curb illicit trade, safeguard our roads from dangerous tyres, and protect our youths from the devastating effects of illicit drugs,” the CG stated.