By Mohammed Bello Doka
In a decisive operation that underscores the vigilance of Nigeria’s border security forces, the Joint Border Patrol Team (JBPT) Sector II, Southwest Zone, Lagos, intercepted a smuggling attempt involving six pump-action rifles and 1,125 live cartridges concealed in sacks of cassava flakes.
The daring seizure, which took place along the Okerete-Odo bush path in Oyo State, was unveiled during a press briefing at the Customs Training College, Ikeja, on Friday, December 6, 2024. Deputy Comptroller Mohammed Shuaibu, the Coordinator of JBPT Sector II, provided a detailed account of the operation, emphasizing the team’s commitment to safeguarding national security.
According to Shuaibu, the breakthrough occurred on December 3, 2024, when a patrol team observed a suspicious individual fleeing a parked Toyota Camry saloon car. A subsequent search of the abandoned vehicle revealed six pump-action rifles, each marked with unique serial numbers, and a cache of ammunition cleverly hidden in food sacks.
“This operation reflects the dedication and sacrifices of our officers in curbing cross-border crimes,” Shuaibu stated, noting that the JBPT Sector II has consistently delivered results since its establishment in August 2019.
Highlighting the unit’s broader achievements, Shuaibu disclosed that the team had recorded seizures valued at over ₦36.7 billion in Duty Paid Value (DPV). They have also intercepted 1,507 irregular immigrants and seized substantial contraband, including 7,200 kilograms of pangolin scales, over 5.5 million litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), and 15 pump-action rifles.
Furthermore, the team has successfully handled 280 suspected human trafficking cases, confiscated 480 vehicles, and intercepted 1,190 illegal means of conveyance. Revenue generation efforts have also been commendable, with ₦1.14 billion remitted to the federation account from the auction of seized petroleum products.
Shuaibu attributed the sector's success to the collaborative efforts of officers from the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), and other security agencies. He extended his gratitude to the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, and the Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, for their unwavering support.
In recognition of their commitment, outstanding officers of the JBPT Sector II were honored with awards for their exceptional contributions to the fight against smuggling and border crimes.
“This achievement is not just a testament to our dedication but a call to all citizens to remain vigilant and patriotic in supporting the efforts to secure our borders,” Shuaibu concluded.
The operation serves as a stark reminder of the persistent threats posed by smuggling networks and the critical role of inter-agency collaboration in maintaining Nigeria’s security.
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