Midnight check: Customs to scan 56 imported containers

…Commends officers for refusing over N58m tramadol bribe money

By Ezurike Ugochukwu

The Tin Can Island Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) in Lagos State is set to conduct scans on 56 imported containers during nighttime. This move aligns with the command’s initiative to establish a 24-hour port operation.

Area Comptroller Dera Nnadi, during his inaugural assembly with the officers and personnel under his supervision in Lagos, revealed this development. He emphasized the potential to mirror the smooth operations observed at airports within the seaports.

Comptroller Nnadi taking salute of commendation

Additionally, the Area Comptroller hinted at acknowledging two officers who declined a bribe of $54,200 (equivalent to about N58 million) offered by smugglers dealing in prohibited tramadol.

Nnadi highlighted the collaborative efforts involving other agencies like the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), and terminal operators to drive this initiative forward.

Nnadi noted the NPA’s commitment to illuminate terminals with an advanced lighting system to support nocturnal operations.

Furthermore, he mentioned that the Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, has aligned with the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, regarding the feasibility of uninterrupted port operations.

He stressed the international nature of import-export businesses, transcending various global time zones, implying that while someone sleeps, containers are being loaded or offloaded for destinations worldwide.

The Area Comptroller commended the officers for their commitment to duty, complying with directives to start at 8 am and finish at 6 pm, including working weekends. Yet, he urged them to embrace continuous learning, advocating for enhancing their expertise in customs capacity development programs like the World Customs Organization (WCO) and other relevant certifications for their roles.

Nandi however stated that two suspects arrested in connection with the two containers are currently being investigated by the National Agency for Food Drug Administration and Control for possible prosecution.

Nandi handing over the money to EFCC Mr  Michael

The Tin- Can Controller while handing over the $54,330 bribe money to Lagos Zonal Commander of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) , Mr. Michael Wetkas described the feat as a victory for the country and to all the security agencies. He specifically celebrated the officers of the NCS that achieved it.

Wetkas also lauded the Comptroller General for the letter of commendation in appreciation of the six customs officers who refused to bow to pressure and inducement from the owners of the illicit drugs.

He promised continued collaboration between the EFCC, NCS and sister agencies. According to him, the era of working without collaboration is gone as the agencies now work closer