Customs intercepts 222 explosives manufacturing compressors, goods worth ₦478 million in Kwara

Aishah Waliyullah

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Kwara Area Command, on Wednesday seized 1,907 items, including 222 compressors, reportedly used in the manufacture of explosives, in a major security crackdown.

The haul also included 1,107 bags of foreign parboiled rice, 14 vehicles, 317 jerrycans of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), 120 bags of illegally mined lithium ore, used clothing, tires and imported sugar, totaling Duty Paid Value (DPV) of ₦478,171,315.

The Deputy Director of the area, Najeem Akanmu Ogundeyi, during a guided tour of the seized assets, warned of the serious security threat posed by the compressors.

“These compressors are used specifically for the production of explosives. That is why we intercepted them. The application of intelligence remains our key weapon against such dangers,” he said.

The exercise saw the collaboration of sister security agencies, including the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigeria Police Force, Federal Fire Service and the NDLEA. DC Ogundeyi lauded the joint efforts, describing the partnership as crucial to tackling complex cross-border crimes.

He also highlighted the government’s ban on the import of parboiled rice, highlighting its role in promoting local production, ensuring food security and generating employment.

“Despite repeated warnings, some criminal elements continue to flout government policies. Our strategic patrols and enforcement actions have proven effective in curbing these illegal activities,” he added.

The seizures highlight the growing threat of smuggling and the need for continued vigilance to safeguard national security and economic stability.

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