The ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding the smuggling of Thirty-seven new vehicles into the country through land borders is to take into account previous activities of the alleged smuggler.
Valued at N1.3Billion, the smuggled vehicles includes 12 units of 2017 Toyota Land Cruiser Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs), 17 Toyota Hilux (2016,2013,2012,2011,2010 and 2009).
According to the Comptroller General of Customs, Col Hameed Ali (rtd), the vehicles were impounded on Wednesday August 2ndand Thursday August 3rd by the CGC Compliance team and the Roving Team of the Federal Operations Unit Zone ‘A’.
Giving an update on the smuggled vehicles on Tuesday, a higly placed source said: “This is a case of outright seizure. The investigation will lead to previous transactions. For example, NCS intend to find out all those behind the illegal trade, their collaborators including customers and location of all smuggled vehicles in the past.At the end of investigation, prosecution will start. This is outright seizures”.
Speaking recently in Lagos, Ali said: “For the avoidance of doubt, the Federal Government policies banning the importation of rice and vehicles through the land borders are still in force. The Nigeria Customs Service remains resolute to work towards crippling smugglers and getting them out of the illegitimate business.
“In the face of security and economic challenges, no responsible government will fold its hand while unpatriotic elements continue to engage in illegal activities that will further compress national economic and security well-being of her people.
“NCS as one of the enforcement agencies of Government will continue to work towards ensuring compliance with all extant laws governing inports and exports in Nigeria.
“For those who use violence as instrument of intimidation, let it be known that going forward, NCS OPERATIVES WILL NOT HESITATE TO use appropriate force to deal with any threat that is intended to obstruct performance of statutory function.
