Nigerian Navy Foils Major Smuggling Operations , Intercepts Over 1,300 Bags of Smuggled Rice in Ikorodu

In a significant victory for Nigeria’s anti-smuggling campaign, the Nigerian Navy has intercepted 1,306 bags of illegally imported parboiled rice during a patrol in the Majidun community of Ikorodu West Local Government Area, Lagos State.

The operation, which took place on Saturday, April 12, was executed by personnel from the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) BEECROFT under the Maritime Component of Operation AWATSE, a multi-agency security initiative. The operation was led by Commodore Paul Ponfa Nimmyel, who also serves as the Maritime Component Commander for the South-West.

According to Commodore Nimmyel, naval officers on a routine maritime security patrol encountered suspicious vehicles attempting to evade a naval checkpoint. The Navy’s Quick Response Team (QRT) immediately pursued the smugglers in line with the Joint Task Force’s Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

“Our officers responded swiftly and professionally, intercepting the contraband without any injuries or loss of life,” said Nimmyel during a media briefing on Wednesday. “This successful operation reflects our dedication to working alongside other security agencies to combat smuggling, economic sabotage, and cross-border crimes.”

The seized rice, smuggled in violation of Nigeria’s import laws, was carefully concealed and transported with the intent to evade customs regulations. The Navy has since handed over the 1,306 bags to the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Western Marine Command in Apapa, for further investigation and appropriate legal action. The handover process was conducted in accordance with the Harmonized Standard Procedures on Arrest, Detention, and Prosecution.

Operation AWATSE, which unites various security forces in the fight against transnational crimes and smuggling, continues to bolster Nigeria’s efforts to protect its borders and support local industries.

This latest interception underscores the Nigerian Navy’s unwavering resolve to prevent illegal trade and protect national food security, in alignment with the Federal Government’s drive to promote local agricultural production and curb economic sabotage.