Criminals Use Fake Presidential Number Plates To Smuggle Vehicles, Customs Reveal

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has said criminals are using fake presidential number plates to smuggle expensive vehicles into the country.

They have also been using fake number plates belonging to various state and local ministries, departments and agencies, emirate councils and other governmental institutions, said Chedi Wada, NCS' Kaduna federal operations unit comptroller.

"Customs will not relent; we will continue to do our best by not allowing smugglers to use the old tactics of using the presidential number plates and other governmental institutions to smuggle luxurious vehicles into the country," Wada told News Agency of Nigeria on Wednesday.

"This is one of the menaces we are having. It is saddening how vehicle smugglers are ridiculing the apex seat in the country by using presidential fake plate numbers on newly smuggled cars to deceive customs."

Wada maintained that customs officers are well-trained and can identify fake number plates with ease. They can't be "played by the old tricks," he said.

"We are not happy with them, it is too bad for them to be playing with the presidency, that's why we always put a heavy hammer on those using the presidency on false instances on smuggled vehicles. Let them respect the presidency, we must respect the presidency that is leadership," he added.

The NCS is responsible for controlling smuggling activities and facilitating trade while implementing other government policies. Wada said the officers are committed to protecting Nigeria's economy by arresting these smugglers and putting a stop to their activities.

He also acknowledged the role of media in helping officers.

"Some will say customs will come to their houses to take contraband, but all this will be amplified through the media on what the rules and regulations are," he said. "People expect customs to notify them of any planned seizure at their houses or shops or arrest. If I inform you that I am coming, what stops you from taking away the exhibit."

Wada urged everyone to learn how NCS works and stay updated about various developments related to it.