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EXCLUSIVE: Inside Nigeria Customs' Smuggling Empire, Revenue Leakages And Succession Crisis
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Sahara Reporters
In a video obtained by SaharaReporters, hundreds of smugglers were seen being guarded by some customs officers, giving orders to move at night with different contraband products.
According to the officers who witnessed the scheme, the 846-code manipulation scheme involves direct payments to customs officers who approve the undervaluation.
While specific details remain classified, intelligence sources indicate that the smuggling networks facilitating rice, fuel and vehicle smuggling are also being used to traffic illicit goods, including arms and narcotics.
Freight forwarders and clearing agents, who facilitate the illegal clearings earn fees from importers, passing a portion to customs officers while retaining substantial profits.
He also condemned customs officers who compromised their responsibilities by accepting bribes from clearing agents to facilitate the release of vehicles.