.. As PTML Customs Seizes 20X20 Containers of expired tomato concentrate
ZAINAB JUNAID
Just as the Port and Terminal Multi-Services Limited (PTML), made a historic milestone in the history of the command by successfully intercepting and detaining a staggering 20 containers filled with expired tomato concentrate, an unprecedented event since the inception of the command, Acting Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR has urged agents and importers at the Command to always act patriotically by making honest declarations.
The Acting Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MRF, made the call on Friday, October 6, 2023 while inspecting seizures made by gallant Officers of the Command.
He expressed disappointment in the rate at which agents and importers are violating trade rules, saying the audacious attempt to introduce such a large quantity of expired food products into the Nigerian market is heartless and inexcusable.
"The audacity of the smugglers to attempt introducing this hazardous product into the Nigerian market is both shocking and disheartening.
" But I want to assure you that our officers and personnel will always remain vigilant, diligently scrutinizing all import and export consignments passing through our seaports, airports, border stations, dry ports, and terminals nationwide."
"Our primary objectives are to curb smuggling, safeguard national revenue, ensure the security of our nation, and promote legitimate trade and businesses."
"The expired tomato concentrates were concealed within 20 containers, each falsely declared as containing almond shells, all under the auspices of a company identified as Nikecristy Investment Limited. In each container, 80 drums were meticulously arranged, amounting to a total of 1,600 drums. The duty paid value of this illegal cargo is a staggering sum of one hundred and sixteen million, two hundred and eleven thousand, seven hundred and twenty-five naira, seventy-three kobo (#116,211,725.73).
"The container numbers involved in this illicit operation are as follows: ACLU 2790243, GCNU 1275582, GCNU 1303278, GCNU 1336137, GCNU 1361905, GCNU 1316824, GCNU 1323314, GCNU 1324727, GCNU 1326210, SEGU 3388813, ACLU 2800629, GCLU 13218553, GCNU 1340991, GCNU 1353290, GCNU 1340991, GCNU 1353290, GCNU 1302570, GCNU 1308140, SEGU 3333426, and SEGU 3338351. As of now, all these containers remain in our custody, officially recorded as seizures. We have apprehended one suspect, Mr. Okonkwo Oliver Izunna, who is currently under administrative bail but remains under investigation," the Comptroller General explained.
This seizure, which was processed through three separate single good declarations (SGDs) forms, he said, is a testament to our unwavering commitment to maximally suppress smuggling and our determination to safeguard the lives of Nigerian citizens by intercepting dangerous imports such as these.
The actions taken by those involved in this unlawful activity contravene the provisions of sections 228(1) and (2), 55 (c and d), and 233 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023. Additionally, it directly violates Schedule 4, item 14 of the Common External Tariff (CET) 2022-2026.
"I would like to take this opportunity to send a stern warning to importers and their agents, urging them to steer clear of unlawful practices such as false declarations aimed at evading duties or smuggling prohibited goods into our country.
It is essential to reiterate that compliant automobile importers and their agents can now expect streamlined clearance processes, with consignments being cleared within three hours when importations adhere to our regulations, involve honest declarations, and prompt payment of customs duties.
"Full compliance brings numerous benefits, including building a reputation for integrity, saving time and money by avoiding demand notices and penalties, and staying out of legal troubles that could lead to imprisonment, loss of licenses, and blacklisting
" Note that the Officers' operations align perfectly with the goals I set for the Nigeria Customs Service since I assumed reigns of leadership," he said
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