…impounds tokumbo tyres, illicit drugs, vehicles loads of foreign parboiled rice
The Ogun 1 Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced the seizure of some foreign-used Pneumatic Tyres, more commonly known as ‘Tokunbo’ tyres, illicit drugs and vehicles laden with 50kg bags of foreign parboiled rice.
The Acting Comptroller General of Customs (Ag. CGC) who announced this in a press briefing on Friday in Abeokuta, said impoundment of these perilous goods were part of the NCS duty to check illicit trade, as well as its unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation from potential road accidents and harmful substances.
In his explanation, the tokumbo tyres are not fit for the Nigerian roads adding that most of these tyres were already expired prior to importation into the country.
He said: “These are ring-shaped protective coverings made of rubber and filled with compressed air, typically used in foreign countries. Regrettably, they are deemed unsuitable for our highways.
“A significant number of these tyres have exceeded their recommended lifespan from their manufacturing date. According to safety experts, good-quality pneumatic tyres are safe for use for only four years from the date of manufacturing. Any usage beyond this duration poses a significant risk to motorists and jeopardises their lives.”
On the impoundment of illicit drugs, Adeniyi recalled that in a previous press conference held on August 7, 2023, the attention of the press was drawn to the grave issue of Cannabis Sativa, commonly known as marijuana or Indian hemp.
He noted that this psychoactive drug is derived from the cannabis plant and has seen a concerning rise in abuse within Nigerian society, especially among our youth, while reiterating the ingenious tactics employed by those engaged in this nefarious trade, including smuggling through land borders, utilising creeks, and even resorting to smuggling via air routes.
However, the Ag. CGC again reaffirmed the Nigeria Customs Service’s commitment to protecting society from the entry of harmful substances and ensuring the safety and well-being of Nigerians.
“Today, we are delighted to report that our commitment to our citizens remains steadfast, as we fulfill our statutory obligations and shield our beloved nation from the scourge of illicit drugs.
“Our officers’ relentless efforts and unwavering dedication in Zone A, specifically the Ogun 1 Area Command, have borne fruit, leading to the interception of Cannabis Sativa, used Pneumatic Tyres, and vehicles laden with 50kg bags of foreign parboiled rice,” he stated.
Giving a breakdown of the seizures, he said “between September 18 and September 30, 2023, the officers of the Ogun 1 Area Command seized 1,436 used Pneumatic tyres, 53 sacks, and 569 parcels of Cannabis Sativa, weighing a total of 1,179 kilogrammes.
“Additionally, they apprehended 3,149 bags of foreign parboiled rice, each weighing 50 kilogrammes, alongside 32 vehicles used for conveyance, among other items.
“These seizures’ Duty Paid Value (DPV) amounts to an impressive N241,977,943.00.
“These seizures were executed at various locations, including Papa/Ajegunle, Ilaro road, Imasayi/Joga road, Ijebu Ode axis, and Odogbolu bush path along Ijebu Ode road in Ogun State.”
Adeniyi highlighted that these seizures were a testament to that Customs renewed determination and strategic deployment of both human and material resources as commitment to protecting Nigerians from the audacious actions of daredevil smugglers remains unwavering.
“We reaffirm our dedication to our duty and pledge to ensure all Nigerians’ safety and well-being. We are resolute in our mission to curb illicit trade, safeguard our roads from dangerous tyres, and protect our youth from the devastating effects of illicit drugs,” he stated.