Arrested Nigerian customs officers linked to 37 contraband boxes

NIGERIAN customs officers have seized 37 containers holding mainly used tyres, clothing and furniture - items prohibited from import at Tincan Island Container Terminal (TICT) in Apapa.


Three individuals as well as an unknown number of customs officers have been arrested in connection with the haul that also included an unspecified number of vehicles used to conceal drugs and furniture, reported Nigeria's Nation newspaper.


The report said area controller of Tin-Can Island customs command, Warikoru Austin, stated some of the containers carrying finished furniture (wardrobes) and other items were already in the port before the federal government had lifted the ban on them, meaning the items remained contraband. Other containers were seized due to "wrong declaration," the report said.


The discovery of the contraband prompted the customs chief to issue a stern warning to importers that anyone caught attempting to smuggle illegal goods into Nigeria will be arrested and prosecuted to prevent damage to the economy and country.


"The law abiding importers have nothing to fear. They have every right to transact their legitimate business in a more conducive atmosphere. As long as they don't engage in shady business and are ready to pay their duty correctly, they can always count on our support," said Mr Warikoru.


"Our importers need to be honest in their declaration and stop the wrong notion that they can evade duty," he said.


"Let me state here for the avoidance of doubt, that any importer involved in criminal act of importing prohibited items would not only meet our officers on ground but would also be arrested and prosecuted for violating the law of the land."


The customs command has launched an investigation into the haul to identify and punish those behind the illegal shipments, while those arrested are being questioned by officers.
(Source:http://www.schednet.com)