The Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone ‘A’ of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), has intercepted a container loaded with 4,410 pieces of donkey skins valued at N4.235 billion.

The seizure was announced by FOU Comptroller Kola Oladeji during a press briefing at the unit’s Ikeja office on [insert date].

The smuggled donkey skins were seized in compliance with Nigeria’s ban on trading in endangered species and in line with the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES). Comptroller Oladeji expressed concern over the illegal slaughter of over 4,000 donkeys to obtain the skins, describing it as a grave violation of international and national laws.

“This is a serious breach of CITES regulations, and we are determined to uncover the individuals behind this illicit trade,” Oladeji stated.

In addition to the donkey skins, the Customs Unit also confiscated 21 vehicles with a duty-paid value of N500 million. Other seized items include:

3,031 bags of 50kg foreign parboiled rice worth N387.9 million.

2,725 parcels (1,378 kg) of Cannabis Sativa valued at N218 million.

397 jerrycans of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS/petrol) worth N1.588 million.

118 cartons of frozen poultry products with a street value of N2.832 million.

105 bales of second-hand clothing worth N126 million.

The operation also led to the seizure of undisclosed quantities of narcotics and other contraband items.

Comptroller Oladeji confirmed that six suspects were arrested in connection with the intercepted goods, including smuggled drugs and banned items. Some of the suspects have been granted administrative bail while investigations continue.

The FOU Comptroller reiterated the unit’s commitment to combating economic sabotage through its ongoing “Swift Sting Operation,” which will continue into 2025. He urged smugglers to abandon illegal activities and engage in legitimate trade.

“I strongly advise smugglers to desist from their unlawful activities and explore legitimate trade opportunities. For genuine importers and traders, our doors remain open for consultation and collaboration in line with the Federal Government’s Ease of Doing Business policy,” Oladeji added.

The Nigeria Customs Service reaffirmed its dedication to enforcing trade regulations and safeguarding the economy from the detrimental effects of smuggling.

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