Customs CG, Adeniyi Presents 299 Cartons of Codeine Syrup, Other Items Seized by FOU ‘A’ … Warns recalcitrant smugglers
Damenews By Adetokunbo FAKEYE
Nigeria – As part of our unwavering commitment to safeguarding Nigeria society and protecting the well-being of its citizens, and fight against the illicit trade of drugs within our nation’s borders the Federal Operations Unit of Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, Zone A has intercepted concealment of 299 cartons of codeine syrup along Lagos/Ibadan Expressway.
Similarly, the unit, according to the acting Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, while briefing journalists today, Wednesday 16th August, 2023 in Ikeja, seized a total of 4,252 bags of foreign parboiled rice (50 kg each) at Dangote/Imashayi Ogun State, Saki Axis Oyo State, Owode/Ado Odo in Ogun state, Idiroko/Ohumbe Ogun State, Okoko Mile 2 Axis in Lagos State and Ado-Ekiti in Ekiti State.
CGC Adeniyi stated further that the unit intercepted 5,600 litres of premium motor spirit and seized when smugglers attempted to takeout these strategic resource through Oja-odan axis in Ogun State.
Other items seized in the last 2 weeks as stated by the CGC include:
a. 291 Bales of Second-hand Clothing
b. 57 Sacks and 4 Jumbo Sacks of Used Shoes
c. 486 cartons of foreign frozen poultry products
d. 190 Pieces of Rugs
e. 5 Units of Vehicles
f. 170 pieces of used tyres.
“These seizures are a fallout of our uncompromising position to strictly enforce the law and protect the lives of our people. The codeine syrup, which is reportedly being abused by mostly young persons in society, is associated with addiction and, in the long-term, results in anxiety, depression, memory loss, and damage to the liver, kidneys and brain. It is pertinent to note that the damaging effects of drugs have led to preventable deaths for consumers taking them outside doctors’ prescriptions.
“The 340 pieces of used tyres seized within the first two weeks of August 2023 by this unit is not only limited to the implementation of import prohibition lists but also a giant stride to mitigate auto crashes caused by smuggled used tyres.
“These tyres are squeezed, compressed and tucked into themselves for ease of concealment, thereby causing them to crack. They are oftentimes expired, their rigidity and strength compromised. Drivers could experience a blowout or sudden rupture as the steel wire meant to keep the tyres in shape has been disorganised in the course of smuggling.
“We once again advise that any investment made into the smuggling business is meant to be a loss because we will keep battling these enemies of our country. I urge all patriotic Nigerians to continuously support the Nigeria Customs Service with helpful information that will aid our efforts to curb smuggling and arrest suspects”, CGC stated.
