The Ogun Area 1 Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has successfully discovered 1,245 live ammunitions that were cleverly concealed within 203 bags of foreign rice.
This operation took place at Tombolo Junction, near Yewa North Local Government Area of Ogun State. Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Bamidele Makinde, addressed the press on August 14, 2023, at the Customs House in Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State. The combined value of the seized ammunition and rice, taking into account the duty paid, amounts to N17.638 million Naira.
“Upon inspection of the seized vehicles and their contents, we uncovered around 1,245 rounds of 70mm (2¾) live ammunition, bearing the Lion, Trust, Supreme, and Redstar brands. These cartridges had been cleverly hidden within 20 bags of the intercepted foreign rice. Recognizing the grave danger posed by such a significant quantity of ammunition if successfully smuggled into the country, we have intensified our efforts to prevent their entry. This is crucial for the safety of our border communities and national security. We are wholeheartedly dedicated to fortifying the security of our borders out of a deep sense of patriotism,” he stated.
Comptroller Makinde noted that the drivers suspected the presence of Customs operatives and managed to escape through the bushes to avoid apprehension. He went on to explain that an ongoing investigation is aimed at identifying the cartel responsible for the attempted smuggling, and he urged residents to promptly provide the Command with any valuable information they might possess.
While expressing his appreciation for the officers who led the successful interception, the Customs Controller emphasized the Nigeria Customs Service’s commitment to recognizing and rewarding exceptional performance by deserving officers.
