Apapa Customs Intercepts Containers Carrying Cutlasses, Machetes, Expired Drugs At Lagos Port

The Apapa Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has successfully intercepted seven containers carrying prohibited items, showcasing its continued commitment to anti-smuggling efforts. This was announced by the Customs Area Controller, Babatunde Olomu, during a press briefing on Thursday, 18 July 2024.

The seized containers included:
– 2x40ft containers with 12,000 pieces of cutlasses and machetes
– 2x40ft containers with 4,129 packages of frozen hens
– 1x40ft container with 368 jumbo bales of second-hand clothing
– 1x40ft container with expired pharmaceuticals

The total duty paid value (DPV) of the seized items amounted to 292,244,857 naira. These imports violated schedule 3 of the revised import prohibition list of the Common External Tariff (CET) and section 233 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023.

Controller Olomu emphasized that these seizures were the result of a combination of intelligence and diligent enforcement, ensuring that no consignment exits Apapa Port without undergoing proper examination. He highlighted the command’s dedication to trade facilitation and maximum revenue collection, while strictly enforcing laws against false declarations, concealment, under-declaration, and under-valuation.

Olomu also underscored the importance of compliance with regulations from sister agencies like NAFDAC for food and drugs, and the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) for products requiring end-user certificates.

He reiterated the commitment of the Apapa Command to ensure only compliant consignments are cleared through the port. He also thanked the government agencies for their ongoing support and assured that the seized items would be handed over to the appropriate agencies for further investigation and regulatory action.

Abubakar Usman, Public Relations Officer for the Customs Area Controller, concluded the briefing by reiterating the command’s zero tolerance for smuggling and its continuous efforts to maintain the integrity of Nigeria’s import and export processes.