Customs Seizes Smuggled Goods Worth ₦721.96m in Sokoto, Zamfara

Customs Seizes Smuggled Goods Worth ₦721.96m in Sokoto, Zamfara

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Sokoto/Zamfara Area Command, has intercepted unregistered pharmaceutical products and other smuggled goods with a total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of ₦721.96 million.

The Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller of Customs Haliru Abdullahi, disclosed this during a press briefing at the Command’s headquarters in Sokoto.

Abdullahi said the interception was part of the Command’s efforts to combat smuggling, protect public health and safeguard the economic interests of Nigerians.

He warned that unregistered medicines pose serious health risks to consumers and stressed that the Command would continue its operations to prevent such products from entering the market.

The intercepted pharmaceutical products include 100 packages of quinine, 500 packages of amodiaquine, 140 packages of paracetamol, 300 packages of anti-cold medication, one carton of analgesic injections, two cartons of Dynewell syrup, one carton of Dynewell tablets and one carton of Clear Cold medication.

“The Command will sustain its anti-smuggling operations to prevent illegal trade and protect the health and economic interests of Nigerians,” Abdullahi said.

Other seized items include 599 bales of second-hand clothing, seven sacks of second-hand women’s bags, 43 cartons of cigarettes and seven cartons of Akouna coffee.

The Command also seized a used DAF truck with registration number JEG 199 XA, which was allegedly used to convey the smuggled goods.

Abdullahi attributed the success of the operation to sustained surveillance by officers and men of the Command, despite security challenges in parts of Sokoto and Zamfara states.

He said the seizures were made in accordance with Sections 245 and 248 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, which empower the Service to seize goods liable to forfeiture.

The Acting Area Controller called on members of the public to provide credible information to support the fight against smuggling and other illegal activities.

He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to suppressing smuggling, facilitating legitimate trade and improving revenue generation.

Abdullahi also appreciated the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, sister security agencies and the media for their continued support in the discharge of the Service’s responsibilities.

Customs Seizes Smuggled Goods Worth ₦721.96m in Sokoto, Zamfara