Navy hands over 125 bags of smuggled rice to Customs in Lagos

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 interception, carried out by personnel of Naval Base Epe, highlights ongoing efforts by security agencies to curb illicit trade and safeguard the country’s economy.

Officials of the Customs’ Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone ‘A’, Ikeja, led by Chinedu Eboh, Superintendent of Customs received the seized items during a handover ceremony at the naval base.

According to a statement by Abiodun Folorunsho, Director Naval Information, the operation was based on credible human intelligence received on April 29, 2026.

“Acting swiftly, naval operatives intercepted a Peugeot J5 van with registration number EKY-168YC at about 3:00 a.m.

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“The vehicle was found conveying 125 bags of 50kg foreign parboiled rice suspected to have been smuggled into Lagos through illegal border routes”, Navy said.

The statement noted that the early-morning operation was critical in preventing the goods from being distributed into local markets.

It noted that the handover was conducted in line with existing regulations governing inter-agency collaboration.

Representing Levi Deyin, Commander of Naval Base Epe, Elvis Egbe, Acting Executive Officer, formally transferred the seized items to Customs for further investigation and necessary enforcement actions.

The Navy emphasised that such cooperation between the Navy and Customs remains vital in tackling smuggling networks that undermine government revenue and distort local markets.

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It said the successful interception underscores its sustained commitment to combating smuggling and other illegal activities within Nigeria’s maritime and littoral environment.

It reaffirmed its resolve to continue supporting national security objectives by working closely with other agencies to protect the economy, enforce trade regulations, and strengthen internal security.