Ember Months: Western Marine Customs Intensifies Waterways Surveillance, Tightens Anti-Smuggling Operations
The Western Marine Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intensified its anti-smuggling operations in anticipation of an increase in smuggling activities towards the end of the year, placing officers across its operational outposts on alert to prevent economic saboteurs from exploiting the waterways.
The Command, which is at the heart of the Customs Service’s maritime operations, is strengthening surveillance across its areas of responsibility as part of efforts to prevent the movement of prohibited goods and illicit substances into Nigerian communities.
The Acting Controller of the Command, Deputy Comptroller Thomas Jonah, disclosed this on Friday during a courtesy visit by executives of the Maritime Correspondents Organisation of Nigeria (MARCON), assuring that the Command would not relent in its enforcement responsibilities.
Jonah said he had issued a marching order to officers to sustain vigilance across all outposts, stressing that the Command is determined to leave no operational gaps for smugglers to exploit.
“As the year is winding up, there is always a surge in smuggling activities. We are not relaxing. We are alert at all our outposts. I have given a marching order. Our officers are on top of things, to ensure nowhere is left open for smugglers and economic saboteurs,” he said.
He emphasised that the waterways would receive the necessary attention, noting that the Customs Service takes its enforcement and anti-smuggling responsibilities seriously.
According to him, the objective is to prevent banned and unregistered goods, as well as psychoactive substances from finding their way into communities, given the dangers they pose to the well-being of Nigerians.
The Acting Controller also highlighted the Command’s collaboration with sister security agencies as part of a coordinated approach to tackling smuggling and other illicit activities.
He reiterated the Command’s determination to sustain its enforcement operations and ensure that Nigeria’s waterways do not become safe corridors for smugglers and those engaged in economic sabotage.
