Nigeria: The Nigerian Navy’s Maritime Component of Operation AWATSE has successfully intercepted 1,306 bags of smuggled foreign parboiled rice at Majidun Community in Ikorodu West Local Government Area of Lagos State
The seizure was made on April 12, 2025, during a routine security and anti-smuggling operation.
According to Commodore Paul Ponfa Nimmyel, Commander of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) BEECROFT, the operation was conducted with professionalism and restraint, with no casualties recorded. The Quick Response Team (QRT) pursued vehicles suspected to be involved in smuggling activities after they attempted to evade security at a checkpoint.
The seized rice was handed over to the Nigeria Customs Service, Western Marine Command, Apapa, on April 16, 2025, in line with standard procedures. This operation demonstrates the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to curbing smuggling activities in its area of operations
By Taiwo Olatinwo/ April 16, 2025
