Nigerian Navy Intercepts Over 1,300 Bags of Smuggled Rice in Ikorodu

Nigerian Navy Intercepts Over 1,300 Bags of Smuggled Rice in Ikorodu

The Nigerian Navy, through its Maritime Component of Operation AWATSE, has intercepted 1,306 bags of foreign parboiled rice being smuggled into the country. The seizure took place in the Majidun area of Ikorodu West Local Government Area of Lagos State.

The interception was confirmed by the Commander of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) BEECROFT and Maritime Component Commander of Operation AWATSE, Commodore Paul Ponfa Nimmyel, during a press briefing on Wednesday, April 16, 2025.

According to Commodore Nimmyel, the smuggled goods were seized on Saturday, April 12, during a routine security and anti-smuggling patrol by the Operation AWATSE team. He noted that the smugglers attempted to evade a checkpoint but were promptly pursued by the Quick Response Team (QRT) in line with standard operating procedures.

“The interception was carried out with professionalism and restraint, and no casualties were recorded during the operation,” the commander stated.

He further highlighted that the successful operation reflects the unwavering commitment of the Nigerian Navy and Operation AWATSE to support statutory agencies in combating smuggling and other criminal activities within their area of responsibility.

The seized consignment has since been handed over to the Nigeria Customs Service, Western Marine Command in Apapa, in accordance with the Harmonized Standard Procedures on Arrest, Detention, and Prosecution.