Customs move to suppress smuggling activities in Kano, Jigawa Command

Customs move to suppress smuggling activities in Kano, Jigawa Command

By: James Bwala

The Comptroller of Customs in charge of Kano and Jigawa area command, Mr. MA Umar has said that he is setting up a new beginning in its operational journey to fulfill the core mandate of the organization towards improving revenue generation, suppression of smuggling activities as well as facilitate trade and national security.

Mr. Umar, who was speaking to newsmen at a press briefing recently said, it is essential to recognize the efforts of the Comptroller General of Customs, Col. James Ali (rtd) in the implementation of policies and agenda of the Federal Government to encourage and protect officers and men of the service in carrying out their statutory functions in suppressing smuggling across the nation’s borders.

“This moment marks a fresh opportunity for cordial working relationships between the Nigerian Customs, Stakeholders and Business Communities. One of the core functions is to ensure facilitation of legitimate trade.” Umar Said.

He said on assumption of office, the enforcement unit of the command was reinvigorated to brace up for the new anti-smuggling operations. “Today, the result of the commitment of officers and men in suppressing smuggling activities in the Area Command is what we are witnessing this period.”

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Mr. Umar added that, “The Command will continue to put in place necessary measures to improve on the collection of revenue with the support from other units of the service such as the CIU, CPU, FOU, border drill and strike force.”

According to him, the command will also continue to maintain the success through synergy continued dialogue, engagement and educating the locals and business Communities on the security, health and economic implications of smuggling while discharging its statutory responsibility of enforcing compliance with government fiscal policies.

“The period under review has witnessed a number of engagements as the command has arrested four people and seized prohibited materials worth N498, 662,498.00. These seizures were made at different locations within the Command’s area of coverage. 

“The four suspects held in connection with the donkey’s skin have been released on administrative bail pending the conclusion of the investigation.” He said.

Mr. Umar explained that the importation of foreign rice through the land borders for example contravened section 46 CEMA Cap LFN 2004. ADD ng that the importation of second hand clothing is absolutely prohibited, while donkey is an endangered species under the convention on international trade.

Customs move to suppress smuggling activities in Kano, Jigawa Command