Nigeria Customs Service Records Major Anti-Smuggling Success in Adamawa/Taraba Region
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Adamawa/Taraba Area Command has achieved significant breakthroughs in its ongoing anti-smuggling operations, intercepting contraband goods valued at approximately ₦98.3 million over a six-week period. This substantial seizure underscores the agency's intensified efforts to combat illicit trade and protect the nation's economic interests.
Press Conference Reveals Details of Interceptions
Comptroller of Customs Muhammed Tarko, the Customs Area Controller (CAC) of the Command, disclosed these achievements during a press conference held on April 15, 2026, at the Customs House in Yola. He emphasized that the seizures were the result of intelligence-led operations conducted across various strategic locations within the Command's area of responsibility.
The intercepted items included:
- Petroleum products such as Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and Automotive Gas Oil (AGO)
- Secondhand clothing, specifically 43 jumbo sacks
- Donkey derivatives, including 509 pieces of raw donkey skin and 460 kilograms of dried donkey meat
- Unregistered pharmaceutical products, notably cartons and packages of Viagra tablets
Specific Seizures and Operational Highlights
According to Comptroller Tarko, the Command intercepted 1,288 jerrycans and three drums containing approximately 32,860 litres of PMS, alongside 2,800 litres of AGO at different locations. The secondhand clothing and Viagra tablets were seized along the Savannah–Numan axis, while the donkey derivatives were confiscated along the Mubi–Sangere axis.
"These seizures are a testament to our unwavering commitment to combating smuggling and protecting the nation's economy," the Comptroller stated during the briefing. He highlighted that the operations were conducted in strict compliance with the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, particularly Sections 150, 245, and 246, as well as the Export Prohibition List under the Common External Tariff (CET).
Warnings and Legal Consequences
Comptroller Tarko issued a stern warning against smuggling activities, noting that the illicit trade in petroleum products, wildlife, and unregistered medicaments poses serious threats to national security, public health, and economic stability. He declared a policy of zero tolerance for smuggling, with offenders facing seizure of goods, arrest, and prosecution without exception.
"There will be zero tolerance for smuggling. Offenders will face seizure of goods, arrest, and prosecution without exception," he warned, urging individuals involved in illicit trade to desist and embrace legitimate business activities instead.
Commitment to Lawful Trade and Collaboration
The CAC reaffirmed the Service's dedication to facilitating lawful trade while enforcing compliance with existing regulations. He commended the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, and the Service's management team for their unwavering support. Additionally, he acknowledged the crucial role played by sister security agencies and the media in enhancing operational success and raising public awareness about the dangers of smuggling.
The Command also praised its officers for their professionalism, vigilance, and dedication to duty, which were instrumental in achieving these successful interceptions. This collaborative effort highlights the multi-agency approach required to effectively tackle smuggling and safeguard Nigeria's borders and economy.
