ZAINAB JUNAID
The Customs Area Controller of the Nigeria Customs Service, Oyo/Osun Command, Comptroller Ben Oramalugo has enlightened the public on intrigues behind continuous seizures of substandard goods smuggled into the country by unscrupulous elements; to protect the citizens and society at large from ugly incidents.
While showcasing recent seizures made by the Command, 2290 pieces of used tyres concealed inside a DAF truck, along Saki axis in Oyo State on August 13, 2024, Comptroller Ben emphasized the pertinent need for continuous protection of Nigerians from the dangers of substandard products illegally imported into the Country, saying it’s inherent in the incessant auto crashes on the road and poses hidden threat to environment and society at large.
He said importation and smuggling of used tyres into the country is illegal as it poses significant risks to public safety due to its worn-out nature which makes it unsafe for use on Nigerian roads.
Speaking further on the successful operation which took place during the late hours of Monday, 12 August 2024 at about 2145hrs, Dr. Ben Oramalugo noted that the seizure is part of the Command’s ongoing efforts to curtail the smuggling of prohibited items into the country, thereby protecting public safety and promoting the integrity of the Nigerian economy.
He added that the successful interception of these item is a testament to the vigilance and dedication of the Command’s officers, who work tirelessly to prevent the smuggling of substandard and prohibited goods into and within the Country.
“The used tyres were discovered during a routine stop-and-search operation conducted by one of the numerous anti-smuggling teams of the Command. Upon inspection, the tyres were found hidden within a DAF truck in an attempt to evade detection by law enforcement officers.
“This seizure highlights the importance of the Command’s continuous surveillance and intelligence-gathering efforts. We are committed to ensuring that only legitimate goods are allowed entry into our country, and will continue to strengthen its operations to combat smuggling activities across all fronts.
“In view of this, unscrupulous elements that engaged in the illicit act of importing prohibited items are hereby warned to desist from their unpatriotic behaviors as our Command- Oyo/Osun Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service will not relent in its efforts to bring offenders to justice and safeguard the nation’s borders.
“The Nigeria Customs Service, Oyo/Osun Area Command, remains resolute in its mission to protect the Nigerian public from the dangers of substandard/smuggled goods and will continue to work closely with other security agencies and stakeholders to ensure the effective enforcement of customs regulations. I hereby urged members of the public to report any suspicious activities related to smuggling in a bid to assist the Command in combating smuggling and protect public safety,” those are words of Comptroller Ben Oramalugo in a statement signed by SC Kayode Wey on 13 August 2024 and made available to journalists.
