The Nigerian Navy has handed over 125 bags of seized foreign parboiled rice to the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) following a successful anti smuggling operation carried out by personnel of Naval Base Epe in Lagos State.

Officials of the Nigeria Customs Service, Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone ‘A’ Ikeja, led by Superintendent of Customs Chinedu Eboh, arrived at Naval Base Epe on 5 May 2026 for the formal handover of the seized items.

The seizure followed a credible intelligence report received on 29 April 2026 at about 3:00 a.m., which led personnel of Naval Base Epe to intercept a Peugeot J5 van with registration number EKY 168 YC. The vehicle was loaded with 125 bags of 50kg foreign parboiled rice suspected to have been smuggled into Lagos State through illegal border routes.

In accordance with existing regulations and established inter agency collaboration procedures, the seized rice was formally transferred to the Nigeria Customs Service for further investigation and necessary action.

The handover was conducted on behalf of the Commander of Naval Base Epe, Captain Levi Deyin, and represented by the Acting Executive Officer, Lieutenant Commander Elvis Egbe.

The Nigerian Navy stated that the successful interception and handover demonstrate its continued commitment to supporting national efforts aimed at combating smuggling, protecting the nation’s economy, and strengthening internal security through effective inter agency cooperation.

The Navy further reaffirmed its resolve to sustain operations against all forms of illegal activities within Nigeria’s maritime and coastal environment.