The Apapa Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has reported a significant crackdown on smuggling activities, resulting in the seizure of contraband worth N506 billion over the past six months.

Among the seized items were two concealed pistols found inside a container.

The command’s enforcement efforts also led to the discovery of prohibited drugs, used tires, rice, vegetable oil, and various other illicit goods.

During this period, the command recorded 16 seizures with a total duty paid value of N1.4 billion.

The Area Controller, Auwal Mohammed, attributed the success to increased compliance and urged officers to continue their diligent work in revenue collection, trade facilitation, and strict anti-smuggling measures.

He highlighted a historic achievement of N9.2 billion daily collection on July 20, 2023, and a total collection of N502 billion since January 2023.

The command’s success in fostering compliance has been attributed to effective profiling and manifest tracking, which have streamlined processes for traders and agents, emphasizing the importance of adherence to regulations.