Bauchi (Nigeria): The Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone ‘D’ of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) in Bauchi recorded a major breakthrough in its anti-smuggling campaign. They intercepted smuggled goods valued at over N229 million.
The Comptroller of the Unit, Abdullahi Ka’ila, made the disclosure at a news conference on Friday in Bauchi.
He said the seizures were made during intelligence-driven operations. These operations were conducted over the last three weeks at identified flashpoints within the unit’s area of responsibility.
According to him, the operations were conducted under meticulous surveillance and coordinated enforcement. These actions were based on credible intelligence, which led to the interception of prohibited and smuggled items brought in through unapproved routes.
Items seized include one Toyota Urban Cruiser (2026 model). They also seized two Toyota Corolla Cross vehicles (2025 models), one Citroën Jumper bus, and one Peugeot Boxer, used as means of conveyance.
Other seizures include 14,750 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), 283 pieces of fresh donkey skin, and 102 sacks of fried donkey meat. They also confiscated several bales and sacks of second-hand clothing.
Ka’ila disclosed that the cumulative duty paid value—the sum total of government taxes and levies required on these imports—of the seized items stood at N229,422,669,
He noted that the operation’s success underscored the effectiveness of intelligence-led enforcement and inter-agency collaboration.
The comptroller warned that smuggling threatens local industries, public health, and economic stability. It undermines legitimate businesses and deprives the government of revenue needed for development.
Ka’ila urged members of the public to support customs operations by providing timely and credible information.
He stressed that community cooperation is vital to combating economic sabotage.
Ka’ila commended the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, and his management team for their support.
He assured Nigerians of the service’s continued resolve to intensify patrols and protect the nation’s economy from illicit trade.
Meanwhile, the seized donkey skins and meat were handed over to the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) for further investigation and proper disposal.
He reiterated that investigations have commenced to identify and prosecute the masterminds behind the smuggling syndicate.
The State Coordinator of NESREA, Mr Yahaya Saurayi, commended the Nigerian Customs Service for its vigilance in combating contraband.
He explained that the agency is responsible for coordinating and liaising with stakeholders, within and outside Nigeria, on matters of environmental standards, regulations and enforcement.
