By Dansu Peter The Nigerian Navy's Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Badagry intensified its crackdown on smuggling activities on Saturda...
By Dansu Peter
Reports according to Guardian suggests that the smugglers arrived at approximately 7:30 a.m., swiftly moving the contraband into position for transfer onto awaiting vehicles. However, before the operation could be completed, naval operatives swooped in, forcing the suspects to flee.
“Some of the smugglers jumped into the water, while others ran into hiding. The drivers of the waiting vehicles sped off to evade arrest,” an eyewitness revealed. “The Navy then reloaded the rice onto the boats and transported them to their base without any confrontation or resistance.”
In a related operation, naval operatives seized 3,375 liters of petrol at a filling station in Ajara, Badagry, on February 1. Intelligence reports indicate that the fuel was being siphoned for illegal export to the Republic of Benin. The perpetrators abandoned the operation and fled upon sighting the security forces.
Further tightening security along the border, the Navy intercepted a speedboat on February 5 carrying nine suspected victims of human trafficking along the Badagry-Porto-Novo Creek. The interception occurred at about 2:30 p.m., and investigations are ongoing to determine whether the individuals were being transported against their will.
Since taking command at FOB Badagry, Capt. Leye Omotayo has bolstered security on the waterways through the introduction of 24-hour patrols. The Navy’s improved coordination with sister security agencies and local communities has contributed to increased surveillance and more successful operations against smuggling activities.
As authorities continue to clamp down on illicit trade along Nigeria’s southwestern border, the latest seizures highlight the growing impact of intensified enforcement efforts. The Nigerian Navy remains committed to maintaining strict vigilance in the fight against smuggling and illegal border activities.
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