The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Oyo/Osun Area Command, has recorded a major breakthrough in its anti-smuggling operations, intercepting contraband goods with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of ₦3.22 billion and arresting suspects linked to illegal firearms.
Speaking at a press briefing in Ibadan on 18 June 2026, the Acting Controller of the Command, DC Wale Moses Adewole, said the seizures were made through sustained intelligence-driven operations, enhanced inter-agency collaboration, and the dedication of officers and men of the Command.
Adewole disclosed that the intercepted items include 1,537 bags of foreign parboiled rice, used clothing, shoes, tyres, compressors, sugar, and large consignments of foreign food products. Others are pharmaceutical products, cannabis sativa, tramadol, and other controlled substances.
He further revealed that three pump-action rifles were among the seized items, leading to the arrest of three suspects currently under investigation.
“In connection with the seizure of the three pump-action rifles, three suspects were arrested and are currently undergoing investigation. The Command is working closely with relevant units to ensure all those connected to this unlawful act are brought to justice”, Adewole said.
The Acting Controller added that the Command also uncovered a recruitment scam in collaboration with the Amotekun Corps in Ibadan, leading to the arrest of a suspect accused of defrauding members of the public by falsely promising employment into the Nigeria Customs Service.
He warned the public to beware of fraudsters, stressing that recruitment into the Service is strictly merit-based and conducted through official channels.
Adewole stated that the cumulative DPV of the seized items stands at ₦3,221,843,672, noting that the interceptions have significantly disrupted the activities of economic saboteurs while safeguarding public health and national security.
On revenue performance, he announced that the Command generated ₦28.5 billion between March and May 2026, representing an 8 per cent increase compared to ₦26.2 billion recorded within the same period in 2025.
“This achievement reflects the dedication, professionalism, and commitment of our officers, as well as the cooperation of compliant stakeholders”, he said, adding that the Command remains committed to plugging revenue leakages and enhancing trade facilitation.
Adewole reaffirmed the Command’s resolve to sustain its crackdown on smuggling while promoting legitimate trade and economic growth.
He also commended officers and men of the Command for their resilience and announced commendation awards for outstanding personnel, describing the initiative as a way to promote professionalism and service excellence.
The Acting Controller expressed appreciation to sister security agencies, stakeholders, and the media for their continued support, assuring that the Command would remain steadfast in protecting the nation’s economy and security.