Customs impound 1,500 pieces of bullet proof jackets

The Federal Operations Unit (FOU) of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) said it has confiscated 1,500 pieces of bulletproof jackets illegally imported, among other items, in Lagos on Friday, July 19, 2024.

Comptroller of Customs, Mr. Kola Oladeji, disclosed this while speaking to reporters in Lagos on Friday.

Oladeji emphasized that the confiscated goods pose significant threats to national security, public health, and economic stability.

He reiterated that the importation of military items by individuals is strictly prohibited under law.

He said: “Series of operations that resulted in the interception and seizures of 1,500 pieces of bullet proof jackets, 989 kg of Indian Hemp (Cannabis Sativa) and 5,229 cartons of expired drugs took place at various times and locations within the South-Western States.

“Four suspects were apprehended in connection with various offenses, including violating import/export guidelines, concealment, wrong classification, smuggling, and contravening policy directives.”

He clarified that the Duty Paid Value of the seized items amounted to a total of N3.636 billion.

Comptroller of Customs, Kola Oladeji, addressing journalists in Lagos.

Collabo with FRSC

The Customs, in collaboration with the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), are currently reviewing the vehicle registration process.

This review aims to ensure that only vehicles that have paid import duty are eligible for registration.

Olajide mentioned that both agencies were still refining the procedures for fine-tuning.

He also stated that they were capturing vehicles that cleared from ports and border, ensuring they qualified for registration.

He said: “The owner of a smuggled vehicle cannot go with that vehicle forever and there are some policy measures the management of the Customs Service is trying to put in place for this purpose.

“So, it will be difficult for owners of such vehicles to get them registered.

“And I believe the measure when concluded will put a stop to the menace of registration of smuggled vehicle.”

About FOU

The Federal Operations Unit (FOU) of Nigeria is a specialized arm of the Nigerian Customs Service.

It is tasked with combating smuggling activities, enforcing customs laws, and ensuring compliance with trade regulations across the country.

The Federal Operations Unit (FOU) of Nigeria was established on August 1, 1989.

It was created to enhance the operational efficiency of Customs in combating smuggling activities and enforcing customs laws.

Since its inception, FOU has played a critical role in intercepting illegal goods, contributing to national security and economic stability.

FOU operates under the mandate to intercept illegal goods, such as contraband items, and prohibited substances.

FOU operates strategically, deploying intelligence-driven operations and conducting surveillance to identify and apprehend smugglers and illegal traders.

They often work in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies to strengthen border security and prevent illicit cross-border activities.

Through its operations, FOU contributes significantly to maintaining economic stability, safeguarding public safety.

They uphold Nigeria’s trade integrity on both domestic and international fronts.

About Nigeria Customs Service

The Nigeria Customs Service is the government agency responsible for the collection of customs revenue and enforcement of customs laws in Nigeria.

It operates under the supervision of the Nigerian Ministry of Finance.

They are tasked with facilitating trade, securing the country’s borders, and ensuring compliance with import and export regulations.

Key responsibilities of the Nigeria Customs Service include:

• Revenue Collection
• Trade Facilitation
• Border Security
• Enforcement of Laws
• Capacity Building
• International Cooperation

Challenges faced by the Nigeria Customs Service include:

• Combating corruption
• Improving infrastructure at ports
• Enhancing trade facilitation

Overall, the Nigeria Customs plays a pivotal role in Nigeria’s economic development.

It ensures efficient trade operations, secures the borders, and contributes to government revenue generation.

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