The Maritime Component of Operation AWATSE has intercepted 1,306 bags of foreign rice being smuggled into the country.

The NNS BEECROFT Commander, Commodore Paul Nimmyel, said this while addressing newsmen on Wednesday in Apapa, Lagos State.

Mr Nimmyel, who is the Maritime Component Commander, South-West Operation AWATSE, said that the rice was intercepted on Saturday at Majidun Community in the Ikorodu West Local Government Area.

He said, “Operation AWATSE team while conducting routine security and anti-smuggling operations within their area of operations intercepted the bags being smuggled. The vehicles suspected to be involved in the smuggling activities attempted to evade security at its check point, which necessitated a swift pursuit by the Operation AWATSE Quick Response Team (QRT). The operation was conducted with commendable professionalism and restraint as no casualties were recorded.’’

Mr Nimmyel said that the successful interception of the consignment demonstrated the continued commitment of Maritime Components of Operation AWATSE.

He stated, “This is aimed at assisting statutory agencies in curbing smuggling activities within our area of operations.”

He said that the smuggled parboiled rice had been handed over to the Nigeria Customs Service, Western Marine Command, Apapa.

Mr Nimmyel said that this was in line with the Harmonized Standard Procedures on Arrest, Detention and Prosecution. 

(NAN)