Customs FOU ‘A’ Achieves Major Milestone Against Smuggling with “Operation Swift Sting”
Author: Ibe Wada.
The Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone ‘A’ of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has achieved significant success in combating illicit cross-border trade, with notable arrests and seizures recorded within just two weeks under “Operation Swift Sting.”
At a press briefing on 23 December 2024, Comptroller Kola Oladeji, the Unit’s head, detailed the accomplishments of the operation, describing it as a groundbreaking effort in curbing smuggling.
He stated, “Through this operation, we seized a substantial quantity of cannabis sativa, 4,010 bags of 50kg foreign parboiled rice, Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), and other contraband items. ‘Operation Swift Sting’ is delivering severe blows to smuggling cartels while facilitating compliant trade with remarkable results.”
Oladeji disclosed that 94 individuals were arrested in connection with the seizures, with six already convicted for various offences. He emphasised the Unit’s commitment to ensuring justice and deterring future involvement in illicit trade.
Highlighting the year’s achievements, Oladeji revealed that 707 seizures with a total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of ₦18,710,143,801.24 had been made from January to date.
Prominent among the items seized were: 48,912 bags of foreign parboiled rice, 191,975 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), 7,861 kg of cannabis sativa, 6,168 pieces of dry donkey skins, 37,630 sachets of tramadol, and 207 vehicles, among other contraband goods.
On revenue generation, the Comptroller reported that the Unit had collected ₦1,012,783,437.21 in 2024 through careful documentary checks and issuance of Demand Notices for consignments that underpaid customs duties.
He remarked, “This underscores the importance of meticulous monitoring and intelligence in preventing smuggling and ensuring all imports are properly declared and taxed.”
Oladeji also called for public support in the fight against smuggling, urging citizens to provide timely and useful information about illicit cross-border trade. He further highlighted the impact of sophisticated smuggling methods on the nation’s economy and security, reiterating the Customs Service’s commitment to safeguarding national interests
