The Maritime Component of Operation AWATSE has intercepted 1,306 bags of foreign parboiled rice in an anti-smuggling operation carried out at Majidun Community, Ikorodu West Local Government Area of Lagos State.
The Commander of NNS BEECROFT and Maritime Component Commander for South-West Operation AWATSE, Commodore Paul Nimmyel, disclosed this during a press briefing on Wednesday in Apapa.
According to Commodore Nimmyel, the interception occurred on Saturday during a routine security patrol by the Operation AWATSE team.
“The vehicles suspected to be involved in the smuggling activities attempted to evade our checkpoint, which prompted a swift pursuit by the Quick Response Team,” Nimmyel said.
He noted that the operation was executed with professionalism and restraint, adding that no casualties were recorded.
The seized rice consignment has since been handed over to the Nigeria Customs Service, Western Marine Command in accordance with the Harmonised Standard Procedures on Arrest, Detention, and Prosecution.
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Commodore Nimmyel emphasized that the operation highlights the Navy’s ongoing commitment to supporting statutory agencies in combating smuggling and maintaining maritime security in the South-West region.
“This is part of our coordinated efforts to assist in curbing illegal activities within our Area of Operations,” he said.
