By Bayo Samaila, Birnin kebbi
The Nigeria Customs Service in Kebbi State has handed over 37 rounds of AK-47 live ammunition; 330 rolls of cannabis sativa and other toxic substances intercepted in Kebbi State to the NDLEA NAFDAC and NCCSALW.
The Customs Area Controller,Kebbi State Command,Mahmud Matawalle Ibrahim ,during the handing over of the seized items said the exercise proves the importance of sustained cooperation between the Nigeria Customs Service, NAFDAC, NDLEA and NCCSALW in ensuring that harmful, unapproved, prohibited and controlled substances, as well as illicit arms and ammunition, do not find their way into the distribution chain or pose unnecessary risks to the public and the national security.
Other items seized included 500 cartons of Rezim Herbicide, 708 cartons of Gramosun, 1,291 cartons of Sun-Paraquat; 1,990 cartons of Gbeledzo; and 1,620 cartons of Gramostrong with a duty paid value of twenty three million,fifty four thousand,three hundred and eighty five naiira,sixty kobo.
He said the distribution of controlled substances as well as the unauthorised movement of arms and ammunition, constitute serious concerns that require sustained collaboration among law enforcement, regulatory and security agencies.
He added that the Kebbi Area Command remains committed to the mandate of the Nigeria Customs Service and to strict enforcement against the smuggling and illicit movement of hazardous, unapproved, prohibited and controlled substances, as well as arms and ammunition.
He said the NCS will continue to work closely with NAFDAC, NDLEA, NCCSALW and other relevant government agencies through information sharing,
coordinated enforcement and other appropriate channels to protect public health, promote regulatory compliance, safeguard our agricultural sector and enhance national security.
While receiving the items the NDLEA Commandant, Ibrahim Kabiru Sokoto describe the seizure as very significant.He said drug plays a major role in the crime being committed in the country today. He called on the public to support the customs and NDLEA to carry out their mandates.
On his part, Captain Iliya Dauda (Rtd), who represented the Zonal Director, Northwest Zone, National Centre for Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons commended the customs for the seizures.
