The Customs Area Controller, Federal Operations Unit, Zone ‘C’ Owerri, has called on smugglers to turn a new leaf and support government policies to build the economy of the nation.
Comptroller Olusemire Kayode who made the call on in a press briefing in Owerri, affirmed that officers and men of the Unit remain unrelenting and resolute in bringing smuggling to its barest minimum.
He noted that barely a week after the last press briefing to showcase seizures made by his officers, more seizures have been made of foreign rice and other items with a duty paid value of 91 million naira.
Comptroller Kayode expressed dismay that despite all efforts, advocacy and plea for people to stop smuggling, the have continued to smuggle in rice and other items.
He said they have a trailer containing 670 bags of Tomato foreign rice which was re-bagged to show that it was Patriot Rice from Argungun in Kebbi state but that they got the information and the smugglers were picked.
The Comptroller said the smugglers are deviants in the society and no matter what you tell them, or government policy, their own is to see how they will sabotage government efforts, and warned that no matter their antics, Customs is always one step ahead and will always get them, calling for the support of the public in the fight against smuggling.
He further disclosed that another heavy duty vehicle, popularly called tipper used for transporting granite, was intercepted along Akwa Ibom axis with 275 bags of rice concealed within.
The CAC speaking further, said the Unit had written to Enugu State Transport Company on three of their vehicles intercepted with bales of second hand clothing concealed within.
He regretted that smuggling of second hand clothing has contributed heavily to the woes of the textile industry, adding that investigations were ongoing and all culprits will be prosecuted.
Comptroller Kayode who decried the activities of smugglers as it negatively affect the socio economic wellbeing of the country, however maintained that the Service is not relenting in its mission to suppress smuggling, and protect nation’s borders, amongst others.
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