Uche Usim
In line with its anti-smuggling operations, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone C Owerri, has intercepted a truck loaded with two pump action rifles, 4,375 rounds of ammunition and military camouflage all neatly concealed to deceive security operatives.
The contraband were intercepted along 9th Mile Road in Enugu. The operatives of the unit also intercepted a truck with cartons of tramadol tablet and codeine syrup, used tyres and packets of cigarette concealed along Headbridge axis.
READ ALSO NEITI: No state can fund its budget with IGR, FAAC allocation
Comptroller Olusemire Kayode, the Customs Area Controller of FOU Zone ‘C’ Owerri, speaking at a press conference, said the seizures were made following tip off from sources.
He also disclosed that over 150 bags of 50kg rice were found concealed behind sacks of palm kernel in a truck intercepted on Aba/Eleme axis.
Olusemire affirmed the dedication of his officers and men to ensure that smuggling is brought to a minimum in the zone and urged the public to support the fight against the menace.
On the seizures of the drugs, he explained that most vices in the society are fuelled by the abuse of drugs, adding that the rate of criminality will reduce if the abuse of drugs is checked.
He also said the import of military uniform is controlled and enjoined the press to help in the sensitisation against illegal imports.
“We do not do our work to showcase ourselves but to sensitise people about the socio-economic ills of smuggling. Smuggling has a lot of adverse effect on the economy and we need you to sensitise the public.
We need to reduce the rate of criminality in our nation and my warning to would-be smugglers in Zone ‘C’ to desist and turn a new leaf.”