Written by
Ishioma Appiah-Yeboah
The Nigerian Navy has handed over 125 bags of smuggled foreign rice to the Nigeria Customs Service following a successful anti-smuggling operation in Lagos State.
The seizure was made by personnel of Naval Base Epe, who intercepted a Peugeot J5 van loaded with 125 bags of 50 kilogramme foreign parboiled rice in the early hours of April 29, 2026.
The operation, according to the Director Naval Information Nigerian Navy Headquarters Abuja , Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunso, was based on credible intelligence pointing to illegal movement of goods through unauthorised border routes.
Officials of the Customs Service, Federal Operations Unit Zone ‘A’ Ikeja, led by Superintendent of Customs Chinedu Eboh, were at the base on May 5 to receive the confiscated items for further investigation and necessary action.
The handover was conducted on behalf of the Commander of Naval Base Epe, Captain Levi Deyin, and represented by the Acting Executive Officer, Lieutenant Commander Elvis Egbe.
The Navy says the operation highlights its ongoing commitment to combating smuggling and safeguarding Nigeria’s economy.
It also reaffirmed its resolve to strengthen collaboration with other security agencies in tackling illegal activities within the country’s maritime domain.