The Katsina State Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) on Friday auctioned hundreds of intercepted vehicles used for smuggling in the state.

The Acting Controller of NCS in Katsina, Dalha Wada-Chedi, while briefing reporters in Katsina said the decision was in compliance with the order of the Controller General (CG), Col. Hamid Ali (Rtd.)

He explained that the CG has ordered the auction of the abandoned intercepted vehicles to those interested to use them as scraps.

Mr Wada-Chedi added that this was not the first time the NCS would auction such vehicles.

“The auction exercise was done through the use of our rules and regulations; the beneficiaries would have to pieces (sic) the vehicles.

“The aim of doing this is to provide the steel companies with the raw materials, reduce smuggling, decongest their premises and provide job opportunities,” he said.

Chukwube Ofoma, a beneficiary, disclosed that he made payment to the federal government’s account for the vehicles, saying it was a good development.

Garba Sheka, another beneficiary, praised the federal government for giving them the opportunity to buy the scraps, pointing out “it will boost our business and also assist in providing job opportunities.”

(NAN)