At a press conference held today at the Adamawa/Taraba Area Command headquarters, Comptroller Garba Bature Bashir detailed significant achievements in the command’s fight against smuggling. Since assuming leadership last month, Comptroller Bashir reported that through enhanced border management and intelligence sharing, the command has intercepted contraband valued at approximately N10.87 million.
During a focused two-week operation under Comptroller Bashir’s direction, the command successfully intercepted multiple attempts to smuggle Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) across the border into Cameroon. A total of 12,435 liters of PMS were seized, contained in 491 25-liter jerry cans and 8 20-liter jerry cans. Additionally, enforcement officers seized a used Mitsubishi truck and a motorcycle, both used in the smuggling attempts.
These seizures were made in strict adherence to sections 150 and 248 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, reflecting the ongoing closure of Nigeria’s territorial borders. Comptroller Bashir announced that due to the flammable nature of the PMS, it would be auctioned immediately, with proceeds remitted to the Federation Account, as outlined in section 119 of the Customs Service Act.
Highlighting the broader implications of smuggling, Comptroller Bashir pointed out the detrimental effects on national growth, trade policies, food security, and public safety. He connected smuggling networks to severe crimes like money laundering, terrorism financing, and human trafficking, underscoring the national security risks involved.
The command reiterated its commitment to eradicating smuggling activities and called upon local communities and patriotic citizens to assist in providing intelligence to further enhance their operations. Comptroller Bashir also urged transporters and oil marketers to remain vigilant and patriotic to help cut off supplies to smugglers.
The press conference concluded with Comptroller Bashir expressing gratitude for the ongoing support from the Nigeria Customs Service management, particularly praising the leadership of Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR for his backing in anti-smuggling efforts. He also acknowledged the cooperation among various Customs units and security agencies contributing to these successes.
The Adamawa/Taraba Area Command remains resolute in its mission to purge smuggling from its jurisdictions, safeguarding the economic and security interests of the nation.