Nigeria Customs Intercepts Stolen Canadian Vehicles, Codeine, and Other Contrabands Worth ₦3.2 Billion at Apapa Port Date: May 23, 2025 By: Insight by Oppy Newsroom The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has recorded a major victory in the fight against transnational smuggling and drug trafficking with the interception of stolen luxury vehicles and banned substances valued at over ₦3.2 billion. The high-profile seizures were made at the Apapa Port in Lagos and other critical entry points across the country. Luxury Cars Worth Over ₦1.8 Billion Recovered In a well-coordinated intelligence-driven operation tagged Operation Transit Charge, the NCS recovered 21 exotic vehicles stolen from Canada and smuggled into Nigeria using forged documents and identity switches. The seized vehicles, which include high-end brands such as Rolls Royce, Lamborghini Huracán, Mercedes-AMG G-Wagon, and Range Rover Sport, were concealed in shipping containers and falsely declared to avoid detection. Speaking at a press briefing, Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, confirmed that the operation was conducted in collaboration with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), INTERPOL, and the Canadian authorities. > “These stolen vehicles were traced using VIN tracking technology and intelligence sharing with international agencies. West Africa is being targeted by criminal syndicates as a destination for stolen vehicles, and Nigeria is committed to reversing that trend,” he said. The Customs boss disclosed that the recovered vehicles would be returned to Canada, with perpetrators already under investigation. The NCS called on Nigerians, particularly importers and clearing agents, to abide by regulations and avoid involvement in smuggling. The agency also encouraged whistleblowing and citizen cooperation to curb the activities of criminal syndicates operating within the borders. These landmark seizures not only highlight the efficiency of Nigeria’s customs enforcement but also send a strong message to international smuggling networks. The NCS has reiterated its commitment to securing the nation’s ports and borders from illicit trade, ensuring Nigeria does not become a dumping ground for stolen property or illegal drugs.