In line with the Harmonized Standard Procedures on Arrest, Detention and Prosecution, Maritime Component of Operation AWATSE under the leadership of the Commander Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) BEECROFT, has today, Wednesday, 16 April 2025, handed over 1,306 bags of smuggled foreign parboiled rice to the Nigeria Customs Service, Western Marine Command, Apapa.
The Maritime Component of Operation AWATSE under the leadership of the Commander Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) BEECROFT, who doubles as the Maritime Component Commander, South-West Operation AWATSE, Commodore Paul Ponfa Nimmyel intercepted 1,306 bags of smuggled foreign parboiled rice at Majidun Community in Ikorodu West Local Government Area of Lagos state.
Commodore Paul Nimmyel, while briefing the newsmen, disclosed that the seizure was made on Saturday, 12 April 2025, by Operation AWATSE Team while conducting routine security and anti-smuggling operations within their Area of Operations.
He stated that some vehicles suspected to be involved in smuggling activities attempted to evade security at check checkpoint, which necessitated a swift pursuit by the Operation AWATSE Quick Response Team (QRT) in accordance with the Joint Task Force’s Standard Operating Procedures.
The operation by the Maritime Component of Operation AWATSE was conducted with commendable professionalism and restraint, as no casualties were recorded.
The timely response of the QRT and successful interception of the consignment have demonstrated the continued commitment of the Maritime Component of Operation AWATSE to assist statutory agencies in curbing smuggling activities within its Area of Operations.
