Lagos, Nigeria – A major breakthrough in the fight against international auto theft occurred as the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) intercepted a shipment of stolen luxury vehicles valued at millions of naira. These vehicles were recovered by the Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone ‘A’ in Lagos, marking a significant step in tackling cross-border crime.
Wale Adeniyi, Comptroller-General of Customs, revealed that the operation was initiated based on intelligence provided by Interpol. According to Interpol’s findings, West Africa and Nigeria in particular has become a critical transit hub for vehicles stolen from North America and Europe. Adeniyi detailed how criminal networks smuggle these vehicles into Nigeria using forged documentation, bypassing regulations to enter the local market.
Collaboration between the NCS, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and Canadian authorities under “Operation Hot Wheel” has been instrumental in dismantling these illicit supply chains. The joint effort underscores the importance of international partnerships in combating sophisticated criminal enterprises.
Adeniyi voiced concerns about the alarming rise in stolen vehicles entering Nigeria, warning of the broader implications. “This trend undermines the integrity of our automotive market and threatens national security,” he stated, emphasizing the urgency of addressing this issue.
The Customs chief also linked the operation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic reform agenda, which prioritizes positioning Nigeria as a credible trading partner on the global stage. By cracking down on illegal activities such as vehicle theft, the government aims to restore confidence among international investors while bolstering the local economy.
The seizure of these high-value vehicles not only disrupts criminal operations but also reaffirms Nigeria’s commitment to curbing illegal trade practices. Authorities continue to investigate the networks involved, signaling the nation’s resolve to enhance security and safeguard its economic interests.
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