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Criminals using fake presidential number plates to deliver smuggled vehicles -Customs
Smugglers have been using fictitious presidential number plates to deliver cars across the nation, according to the comptroller of the Nigeria Customs Service, Federal Operations Unit Zone "B," Kaduna, Chedi Wada.
Wada claims that they have also been dubiously using these fictitious licence plates, which are registered with different state and local administrations, MDAs, Emirate Councils, and other governmental organisations.
During a courtesy call in Kaduna, Wada revealed this to Bashir Rabe-Mani, Zonal Manager, News Agency of Nigeria, Kaduna Zonal Office.
Customs won't give up; we'll keep trying our hardest to stop smugglers from using the presidential number plates and other official institutions as cover for bringing expensive cars into the nation.
This is one of the threats that we face. The way car smugglers make fun of the nation's highest office by using presidentially issued fictitious licence plates on recently imported vehicles to trick customs officials is heartbreaking.
He says customs officials are highly skilled and can spot phoney numbers with ease. They are also not fooled by old tricks.
"We are not happy with them; it is too bad for them to be playing with the presidency," declared the comptroller. "That is why we always strike hard at those who use the presidency on false pretences involving smuggled vehicles."
"Let them honour the presidency; we have to honour the office that represents leadership."
Wada also revealed that numerous vehicles with fictitious licence plates, including those belonging to ministries, local governments, and other government agencies, had been seized.
In addition to carrying out other official initiatives, he claimed that the service was tasked with suppressing trade facilitation, revenue, and anti-smuggling activities.
According to the comptroller, the agency is dedicated to stopping smugglers' operations in order to rescue Nigeria's economy.
According to Wada, many people are unaware of the customs' rules and the rationale behind certain actions, and the media has been helping them to spread the word about what they are doing.
Others claim that customs officers will visit their homes to seize contraband, but the media will heavily publicise the laws and regulations governing this.
"The Customs Act states that customs officers may enter a location upon receiving intelligence, seize contraband, and potentially make an arrest and file charges."
The general public anticipates being informed by customs of any impending arrests or seizures at their homes or businesses.
How can you prevent me from removing the exhibit if I let you know I'll be there?
He stated that they have had a significant impact since taking up duty in the area six weeks ago, including the seizure of numerous items.
Wada stated that the system is operational but also noted that they conduct investigations based on the information they receive and may pursue legal action.
The comptroller also urged Nigerians to be aware of what was going on at customs across all platforms, including social media, and to express interest in jobs in the field.
Wada assured the NAN ZM of his continued cooperation with the media and the agency, and he also thanked him for coming.
Prior to the visit, Rabe-Mani stated that the goal of the visit was to strengthen the current partnership between NAN and NCS.
Additionally, Rabe-Mani pursued ongoing cooperation to guarantee