Joyce Mmereole Okoli
The Seme Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has made significant strides in anti-smuggling operations and revenue generation in the first quarter of 2024.
During a press briefing held at the Command’s headquarters, Customs Area Controller Comptroller Timi Bomodi reported the interception of numerous contraband items and the arrest of multiple suspects.
Among the seized items were 373,440 liters of petrol, 428 wild animals, and ten trailer loads of rice. Additionally, the Command intercepted 12,448 jerrycans of PMS, 6,467 bags of rice, 15 used vehicles, 1,251 parcels of cannabis sativa, and various other contraband. These seizures were valued at over ₦840 million.
Bomodi stated that there has been increase on illegal importation of Cannabis from Ghana and different and the perpetrators have devised different methods of operating in their effort to beat officers of the command and such plans have all been neutralized.
“The illegal importation of cannabis from Ghana has been on the rise, with criminals employing various methods to evade capture. However, our officers have effectively neutralized these efforts,” said Comptroller Bomodi.
The wild animals seized included 20 live parrots, two honey badgers, pelican birds, and 404 live tortoises. Other items confiscated included 149 packages of codeine and 45 used tires.
The Command also reported the arrest of a notorious smuggler, whose activities had plagued the area for some time, along with 18 other suspects. These arrests mark a significant victory in the ongoing battle against smuggling.
“A notorious smuggler have also been arrested by our officers. He thinks he is above the law and cannot be arrested. He will be used as an example so others will also know that one’s they are caught, they will be made to face the law,” he said.
In terms of revenue, the Command collected over N2.634 billion in the first quarter, marking a 272% increase compared to the same period in 2023. This surge in revenue underscores the Command’s enhanced efforts in anti-smuggling operations and efficient revenue collection.
Export activities facilitated by the Command included 143,468 metric tonnes of produce with an FOB value of ₦35.199 billion, equivalent to $38.461 million. The NESS value paid was ₦174.518 million, utilizing 406 SGDs from January to May 26, 2024.
In compliance with directives from the Comptroller-General of Customs, the Seme Command is committed to transparency and has established a complaint desk to address issues of molestation, particularly concerning females going about their daily activities .
“We strongly frown upon any act endangering the health and well-being of vulnerable populations. A desk has been set up so that any female harassed by either officers or stakeholders can lay their complain and such will definitely get justice. Stringent actions will be taken against any officer found guilty of such misconduct,” emphasized Comptroller Bomodi.
Comptroller Bomodi extended his gratitude to the Nigerian Army, Air Force, and Navy for their unwavering support in ensuring border security. Their collaboration has been instrumental in the Command’s successes.
Bomodi reiterated the Command’s dedication to upholding security, facilitating legitimate trade, and ensuring the welfare of all stakeholders at the Seme-Krake Joint Border Post.