To fight smuggling activities in the creeks and waterways, the Comptroller-General of the Nigerian Customs Services (NCS) Col. Hameed Ali (Rtd) has called on residents of the South to provide them with credible information.
Ali appealed yesterday in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital when he inaugurated 18 units of locally made creek patrol boats.
The boats were acquired by the Customs to fight the menace on Southern, Eastern, and Western water bodies.
He urged those whose responsibility it is to operate the equipment to ensure proper maintenance and protection, adding that the Customs has spent huge sums of money to acquire them.
“As we inaugurate these boats which will be deployed for the Southern waters, (the Eastern and Western Marine Commands), I urge our marine operatives to use them judiciously in the interest of the country.
The Comptroller noted that the acquisition is coming at a time when more smugglers are running away from the heat on land to water, even as he assured that they would be smoked out in no time.
“This event marks the beginning of a renewed offensive against those who chose creeks and waterways as a haven for their illegal trade.
“The 18 creeks patrol boats, consisting of nine logistic support boats and nine gunboats whose parts are armored, should send clear signals to the criminals that the game is up.”
