Lilypond Customs Intensifies Fight Against Smuggling, Seizes Timbre Worth Over $295k

Lilypond Customs Intensifies Fight Against Smuggling, Seizes Timbre Worth Over $295k

The Lilypond Export Command (LEXC) of the Nigeria Customs Service said it has taken strong measures to uphold the integrity of Nigeria’s export trade leading to recent seizures of smuggled goods.

Comptroller Ajibola Odusanya emphasized the command’s commitment to keeping stakeholders informed about their activities, particularly regarding recent enforcement actions aimed at deterring illegal export practices.

In a statement signed by Bukola Olusola-Oke, Assistant Superintendent of Customs II, the Command PRO, Comptroller Odusanya highlighted the command’s dedication to ensuring compliance with customs regulations, stating, “We have a resolve not to sacrifice compliance on the altar of trade facilitation.”

He reiterated that any consignment found in violation of national laws would be prevented from export, underscoring the command’s role in supporting the Federal Government’s initiative to promote non-oil exports.

He revealed that, On October 11, 2024, acting on reliable intelligence, a joint team from the Lilypond Export Command and the Customs Intelligence Unit intercepted eleven containers at the Apapa Port.

These containers were suspected of being used for smuggling and were found to contain raw and unprocessed timbre, violating Schedule 6 of the Common External Tariff (CET). The seized cargo, valued at approximately $295,944, included container numbers TRLU9354677, MRKU9991028, TCLU2179830, and others.

Following a thorough examination, the containers have now officially been converted to seizures under Sections 148, 149, and 150 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023.

While the specific individuals behind this smuggling attempt have yet to be apprehended, the command hopes that these actions will serve as a strong deterrent to potential offenders.

Comptroller Odusanya assured the public that the long arm of the law would eventually catch up with anyone who defies their regulations, reinforcing the Customs Service’s zero tolerance for smuggling. He emphasized the importance of collaboration with other government agencies to monitor and combat illegal export activities effectively.

He urged exporters of all sizes to leverage the opportunities available through government initiatives and assured stakeholders of the command’s ongoing engagement to enhance export trade.