CUSTOMS CRACKDOWN: Apapa Command Seizes 7 Containers of Illegal Imports

By Lod Onyeji

In a significant blow to smugglers, the Apapa Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has intercepted seven containers holding various prohibited items, including weapons, frozen food, used clothing, and expired pharmaceuticals. The seized goods, worth a staggering N292,244,857, were discovered on July 18, 2024, at the Apapa Port.

According to Customs Area Controller BO Olomu, the successful operation was a result of intelligence gathering and diligent enforcement. "We will continue to ensure that all consignments undergo proper examination before exiting the port," he emphasized.

The seized items include:

- 12,000 pieces of cutlasses and machetes

- 4,129 packages of frozen hen

- 368 jumbo bales of used second-hand clothing

- 1 container of expired pharmaceuticals

These imports violate the revised import prohibition list of the Common External Tariff (CET) and section 233 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023.

The Apapa Command has reiterated its commitment to enforcing extant laws and collaborating with regulatory agencies like NAFDAC and the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).

The seized items will be handed over to the appropriate agency for further investigation and regulatory action. This operation serves as a warning to smugglers and a testament to the Command's dedication to trade facilitation, revenue collection, and enforcement of laws.