The Murtala Muhammed International Airport Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) in Ikeja, Lagos, took significant steps on Thursday by handing over counterfeit $1.2 million notes, five cryptocurrency machines, and a range of military equipment to key agencies.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) received the fake currency and cryptocurrency machines, while the 81 Division of the Nigerian Army in Lagos received 148 Unmanned Area Vehicles (UAVs), also known as drones, 112 military hardware items and accessories, two bulletproof helmets, and two Army vests.
The Customs Area Controller, Compt. Charles Orbih, emphasized that the action was carried out in compliance with the directive of the Comptroller General of NCS, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi. He noted that the importers of the UAVs failed to provide an End-User Certificate from the Office of the National Security Adviser.
Major General Muhammed Usman, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 81 Division, Nigerian Army, lauded the collaboration between Customs and the Nigerian Army, stating that it enhances inter-agency cooperation. This action underscores the commitment of both agencies to combatting illicit activities and safeguarding national security.
“I thank compt. Orbih for his excellent effort and on behalf of the Chief of Army Staff, who sent me here to receive these items, I thank the Customs CG.
“By the time we hand over the drones to experts in the Army, we will know more of what damage it can do if they were in the wrong hands.
“If it can be equipped with ammunition and can be in the air for three days, then it was brought in for a mischievous purpose.
“However, this will foster relationship between the two organisations and we are happy these equipment are in the hand of the authorities, not criminals,” he said.
