From Joseph Adahnu, Yola
Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Adamawa/Taraba Area Command, has intercepted smuggled items worth N104.4 million within four weeks.
The lists of items seized includes 36,835 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS or Petrol) in 1,219 jerry cans and 24 drums and 101 pieces of raw donkey skin packed in seven sacks, intended for illegal export to neighbouring Country.
The Area Comptroller, Garba Bashir, who expressed concern over wildlife trafficking, warned that continued illegal slaughter of donkeys could lead to extinction.
Expressing displeasure, Bashir, said the exportion of raw hides, violates the Common External Tariff (Schedule 6) and Section 150 of the NCS Act, 2023.
The Comptroller, maintained that despite harassment and threats by smugglers, the Customs Command, his men and officers will remain committed to enforcing the law.
He noted that although smuggling cannot be eradicated completely, Adamawa state has been able to reduced it drastically. He urged smugglers to desist and embrace legal businesses.