Customs intercept illegal goods worth ₦362M in Adamawa, Taraba

By Yagana Ali Yola

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Adamawa/Taraba Area Command, has recorded a major victory in the fight against smuggling, intercepting prohibited goods and endangered wildlife products valued at over ₦362.2 million in a series of intelligence-led operations across the two states.

The breakthrough, which occurred within six weeks of intensified surveillance, highlights the command’s renewed commitment to protecting Nigeria’s economy, strengthening national security and preserving the country’s natural resources from criminal exploitation.

Speaking at a press conference held at the Customs House in Yola, the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller MA Tako, said the seizures were achieved through strategic intelligence gathering, coordinated enforcement and the dedication of officers operating along key border corridors.

He noted that the command remains determined to prevent smuggling while promoting legitimate trade, warning that individuals involved in economic sabotage would face the full consequences of the law.

Between June and July 2026, Customs operatives carried out several successful interceptions along major smuggling routes connecting Adamawa and Taraba States with neighbouring countries. 

One of the early seizures involved a DAF low-bed trailer carrying a Sanny motor grader allegedly being illegally exported through the Gudusu-Belal route towards Chad.

The command also intensified operations against the illegal transportation of petroleum products, recovering 25,295 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) concealed in 1,003 jerry cans and one drum across various locations, including the Goshindan-Belal, Mubi-Sahuda, Pariya-Wuro Bokki and Maiha-Wuro Alhaji routes.

A significant moment in the operations came on July 23, when officers intercepted a Toyota Hiace bus along the Yola-Numan Road. 

Inside the vehicle were sacks containing a large quantity of prohibited wildlife products, including 220 kilograms of pangolin scales and 74 kilograms of elephant ivory tusks.

The seizure also included 534.55 kilograms of dried donkey meat, 64 pieces of raw donkey skins, 9 kilograms of Cannabis Sativa, and three vehicles linked to the illegal activities. 

Five suspects were arrested and are currently undergoing investigation for possible prosecution.

Comptroller Tako revealed that the total Duty Paid Value of all seized items amounted to ₦362,204,543.91, describing the achievement as a clear demonstration of the command’s determination to disrupt criminal networks involved in illegal trade.

He stressed that the trafficking of endangered wildlife species, illegal movement of petroleum products and drug-related offences remain serious threats to Nigeria’s economy, security and environmental sustainability.

The Customs Area Controller explained that the operations were conducted in accordance with the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, the Common External Tariff Export Prohibition List and international agreements protecting endangered species.

He further announced that the confiscated donkey skins would be destroyed in collaboration with relevant government agencies, reaffirming the Service’s zero-tolerance policy against smuggling. 

He also commended the leadership of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, security agencies, Customs officers and the media for their support in strengthening the fight against illegal trade.