The Western Marine Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has announced the seizure of 15 sacks containing 1,021 loaves of illicit substances, valued at N107 million.
The operation was conducted along the Ajido waterways in the Yekeme Axis, according to the command’s Public Relations Officer, Magaji Mailafiya, in a statement issued on Tuesday.
Mailafiya revealed that the interception occurred on December 16, 2024, as part of the command’s anti-smuggling efforts.
He explained that the consignment, weighing 538 kilograms, was seized while smugglers attempted to offload the illicit items onto land after grounding their boat.
“In furtherance of its anti-smuggling mandate, the Western Marine Command of the Nigeria Customs Service on the 16th of December, 2024, effected another seizure of 15 sacks containing 1,021 loaves of illicit substances. The consignment, which was intercepted along the Ajido waterways in the Yekeme axis of the command have a total weight of 538 kg with a value of N107m,” he stated.
Mailafiya detailed how the smugglers fled upon spotting customs officers at the scene, leaving the contraband behind. Despite a challenging environment, the patrol team secured the items, transported them via official patrol boats, and brought them to the command headquarters for further investigation.
He credited the support from the Comptroller-General of Customs and his management team, noting their provision of critical resources and equipment to strengthen anti-smuggling operations.
“The Comptroller-General of Customs and his management team have been instrumental in supporting the fight against smuggling operations by providing critical resources and equipment to the command,” Mailafiya said.
The statement further emphasized the command’s readiness to secure the waterways under the leadership of Comptroller Paul Bamisaiye, particularly during the festive season when smuggling activities often intensify.
“The Nigeria Customs Service remains committed to protecting the nation’s waterways and ensuring a safe environment for lawful trade and activities,” Mailafiya added, reaffirming the agency’s determination to thwart any nefarious smuggling attempts during the Yuletide.
