The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Seme Area Command, has intercepted hard drugs, expired flour, and other contraband goods worth over N1.9 Billion at the Seme-Krake border between Nigeria and Benin Republic. The seizures were made as part of intensified efforts by the Service to curb smuggling and ensure the safety of citizens.
Speaking during a media briefing at the command headquarters, the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Timi Bomodi, disclosed that the confiscated items included a large quantity of cannabis sativa (commonly known as marijuana), tramadol, and over 500 bags of expired flour intended for distribution within the country. He said the operation was the result of intelligence-driven surveillance and cooperation between officers of the command and other security agencies stationed along the border corridors.
Bomodi explained that the drugs, concealed in various vehicles and containers, were intercepted through coordinated raids and routine patrols along the creeks and bush paths used by smugglers. He noted that the smugglers had devised new concealment techniques to evade detection, but the command’s enhanced monitoring system made the interception possible.
According to him, the seizure aligns with the renewed directive of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, to strengthen border security and prevent the importation of harmful and substandard goods into Nigeria. “Our responsibility goes beyond revenue collection. We are committed to safeguarding the health and safety of Nigerians by stopping the influx of dangerous and expired products,” Bomodi stated.
He further revealed that some suspects linked to the seized goods had been arrested and were currently under investigation, while the confiscated drugs would be handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further action. The expired flour, he added, would be destroyed in accordance with public health and environmental safety standards.
The controller commended the vigilance of his officers and the collaboration of sister security agencies, including the NDLEA and the Nigerian Police, in the success of the operation. He warned smugglers to desist from illicit trade or face the full wrath of the law, stressing that the Service remains resolute in its campaign against economic sabotage.
Bomodi reiterated that the Seme Command would continue to adopt intelligence-led operations and modern technology to monitor Nigeria’s borders, ensuring that only legitimate trade thrives. He also assured traders engaged in lawful business of the command’s continuous support and facilitation of cross-border commerce under international best practices.
