Patrick Kelechi, Lagos
DAILY COURIER - The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has recovered several high-value stolen vehicles allegedly smuggled from Canada, with an estimated worth running into billions of naira.
This announcement was made by the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, during a press briefing on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, at the Federal Operations Unit Zone 'A' in Lagos.
Luxury cars recovered
Among the intercepted vehicles were three 2021 Toyota Highlanders, a Mercedes-Benz G550, a Range Rover Sport, a Mercedes-AMG GT, a Lamborghini Huracan, a 2019 Lamborghini model, a Rolls Royce, and two Range Rovers (2023 and 2018 models). These vehicles were seized at different locations, including Lekki, Tin-Can Island in Lagos, and Onne Port in Rivers State.
The CGC emphasized the gravity of the situation, noting the growing trend of stolen vehicles being funneled into Nigeria. He described this activity as a significant threat to national security and economic stability, stating, “This criminal activity not only strains our operational capacity but also undermines the government’s efforts to attract foreign investment and establish Nigeria as a reliable partner in global trade.”
Operation Hot Wheels
In response to this alarming trend, the NCS launched Operation Hot Wheels, a targeted enforcement initiative in collaboration with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and Canadian authorities. The operation aims to disrupt the influx of stolen vehicles into Nigeria through its ports and borders.
CGC Adeniyi highlighted the success of the initiative, attributing it to enhanced intelligence gathering and strategic resource deployment. “Our officers at various commands have successfully intensified surveillance operations while ensuring minimal disruption to legitimate trade flows,” he said.
Arms interception
In addition to the stolen vehicles, the NCS also intercepted arms and ammunition concealed in a commercial bus traveling from Aba, Abia State, to Lagos. Details about the type and quantity of weapons were not disclosed, but the CGC assured the public of the service’s commitment to curbing such illicit activities.
International cooperation
The recovered vehicles have been formally handed over to Canadian authorities, symbolizing the strong international cooperation between Nigeria and Canada. The CGC expressed pride in this milestone, describing it as a testament to the effectiveness of cross-border collaborations in tackling transnational crimes.
The CGC urged citizens and businesses to remain vigilant, particularly when acquiring imported vehicles, to avoid unwittingly supporting criminal networks. He also reassured legitimate traders of the NCS's dedication to facilitating lawful commerce while combating smuggling and other illegal activities.
This operation underscores the importance of sustained collaboration between national and international stakeholders in enhancing border security and maintaining global trade integrity.
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