The Federal Operations Unit (FOU) of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) recently made a significant seizure, confiscating 1,500 bulletproof jackets along with other illegal items. This operation took place on Thursday, July 18, and highlights the ongoing efforts of the Customs Service to curb illegal imports and smuggling activities.

FOU Comptroller Kola Olajide announced the confiscation, explaining that these items pose serious risks to Nigeria’s security, health, and economic stability. The total value of the seized goods is estimated at N3.636 billion. Along with the bulletproof jackets, the Customs also seized 989 kg of Indian Hemp (Cannabis Sativa) and 5,229 cartons of expired drugs. These seizures occurred at various locations across the South-Western States, and four suspects were

apprehended in connection with these offenses. The suspects are facing charges related to smuggling, concealment, and violating import/export regulations.

In addition to tackling illegal imports, the Customs Service is working with the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) to prevent vehicle smuggling. They are revising the vehicle registration process to ensure that only vehicles with paid import duties are registered. This move aims to make it challenging for smuggled vehicles to be legally registered, thereby discouraging the smuggling of vehicles into the country.

Olajide emphasized that these new measures are designed to stop the illegal registration of smuggled vehicles and enhance compliance with import regulations. The Customs Service hopes that these efforts will significantly reduce vehicle smuggling and related issues.

By continuing these initiatives, the Nigeria Customs Service and FRSC are taking important steps to protect the country’s borders and ensure the safety and legality of imported goods.