Customs Intercept 250 Bags of Rice Hidden in Fuel Tanker, Seize Pharmaceuticals and Chemicals
The Federal Operations Unit, Zone ‘B’ of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) in Kaduna has intensified its anti-smuggling operations, intercepting 250 bags of foreign parboiled rice concealed within a fuel tanker. The seizure, announced on Wednesday, underscores the agency’s ongoing efforts to curb illegal trade across Nigeria’s borders.
The rice, suspected to have been smuggled into the country, was discovered during a routine patrol by customs operatives, who uncovered the bags ingeniously hidden inside the tanker to evade detection. The NCS Zone ‘B’ Comptroller, whose name was not disclosed, praised the operatives for their vigilance, emphasizing the unit’s commitment to disrupting smuggling networks that undermine Nigeria’s economy and food security policies.
In addition to the rice seizure, the unit handed over confiscated pharmaceutical products and hazardous chemicals to the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), respectively. The items, seized during recent operations, were transferred to ensure proper regulation and disposal in line with national safety standards.
The NCS did not disclose the exact location of the interception or the identities of those involved, pending further investigation. The agency reiterated its resolve to strengthen border surveillance and collaborate with other regulatory bodies to combat smuggling and protect public health. Authorities have urged the public to provide information on suspicious activities to aid ongoing efforts against illicit trade. Further details are expected as investigations continue..
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