Nigeria Customs Service seizes ₦3.2 bn contraband and steps up inter‑agency security efforts

The Nigeria Customs Service’s Oyo/Osun Area Command intercepted three pump‑action rifles, arrested three suspects and seized more than ₦3.22 billion worth of contraband, including rice, used tyres, pharmaceuticals, cannabis, tramadol, fuel and vehicles. Acting Customs Area Controller Wale Adewole said the operation was one of the command’s most significant recent achievements and emphasized ongoing investigations into the smuggling network.

In Kogi State, security forces intercepted a cache of arms and ammunition destined for criminal networks, recovering two AK‑47 rifles, pistols, ammunition and military uniforms. The operation involved the Kogi state government, the Office of the National Security Adviser’s Hybrid Forces, the 12th Brigade of the Nigerian Army and the Department of State Services, leading to the arrest of three suspects in Sokoto State.

Customs officials also met with the Department of State Services in Kogi to reaffirm cooperation on intelligence sharing and joint operations, while the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission held a sensitisation session for customs officers in Borno State on integrity and transparency. Additionally, the Kogi State Police Command held a stakeholder consultative meeting to strengthen community collaboration on security challenges.