By Peace Udugba
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Oyo/Osun Area Command, has recorded a major breakthrough in its anti-smuggling operations with the interception of contraband goods valued at ₦3,221,843,672 and the arrest of suspects linked to arms trafficking, drug smuggling, and fraud.
The Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller Wale Moses Adewole, disclosed this on Wednesday during a press briefing, stating that the successes were achieved through intelligence-driven operations and inter-agency collaboration.
MAJOR SEIZURES RECORDED
The Command intercepted foreign rice, used clothing and shoes, tyres, sugar, pasta products, pharmaceuticals, narcotics, petroleum products, and other restricted items.
Also seized were:
1,769 wraps of cannabis sativa
Large quantities of Tramadol and other controlled drugs
3 pump-action rifles
15 vehicles including Toyota Corolla, Toyota Hiace, GMC, Opel Astra, and Fiat Tipper Truck
Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and other contraband goods
A total of 32 categories of items were recorded in the seizures.
SUSPECTS ARRESTED
Three suspects were arrested in connection with the attempted smuggling of firearms and are currently under investigation.
In a separate operation, another suspect was arrested in collaboration with the Amotekun Corps in Ibadan for allegedly defrauding members of the public by impersonating Customs officials and promising recruitment opportunities in exchange for money.
The Command reiterated that recruitment into the Nigeria Customs Service is strictly merit-based and not for sale.
REVENUE PERFORMANCE IMPROVES
The Command also generated ₦28,503,393,802.75 between March and May 2026, representing an 8 per cent increase compared to ₦26,233,796,496.57 recorded in the corresponding period of 2025.
CUSTOMS COMMITS TO STRONGER ENFORCEMENT
Adewole reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to intensifying the fight against smuggling and protecting the national economy, noting that offenders would continue to face strict enforcement actions.
He also announced commendation awards for outstanding officers and appreciated sister security agencies, stakeholders, and the media for their support.
