By Chimezie Godfrey
The Nigerian Navy has handed over 125 bags of seized foreign parboiled rice to the Nigeria Customs Service following a successful anti-smuggling operation in Lagos State.
The seizure, carried out by personnel of Naval Base Epe, was described as part of ongoing efforts by security agencies to combat smuggling and protect the nation’s economy from illegal trade activities.
In a statement signed by the Director of Naval Information, Abiodun Folorunsho, officials of the Nigeria Customs Service, Federal Operations Unit Zone ‘A’ Ikeja, led by Superintendent of Customs Chinedu Eboh, arrived at Naval Base Epe on May 5, 2026, for the formal handover ceremony.
According to Folorunsho, personnel of Naval Base Epe intercepted a Peugeot J5 van with registration number EKY-168YC loaded with 125 bags of 50kg foreign parboiled rice suspected to have been smuggled into Lagos State through illegal border routes.
The Navy spokesman stated that the operation followed credible intelligence received by naval personnel on April 29, 2026, at about 3:00 a.m.
According to the statement, the intercepted rice was subsequently handed over to the Nigeria Customs Service in line with existing regulations and inter-agency collaboration procedures for further investigation and necessary action.
Folorunsho disclosed that the handover was conducted on behalf of the Commander of Naval Base Epe, Captain Levi Deyin, by the Acting Executive Officer, Lieutenant Commander Elvis Egbe.
The statement noted that the successful interception demonstrated the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to supporting national efforts aimed at curbing smuggling and strengthening internal security.
According to Folorunsho, the Navy remains committed to sustaining operations against illegal activities within Nigeria’s maritime and coastal environment.
Security analysts have continued to stress the importance of collaboration among security and enforcement agencies in tackling smuggling and other trans-border crimes affecting the nation’s economy.
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