HOW WE INTEND TO WAGE THE WAR AGAINST SMUGGLING IN ZONE C – COMPT UGBAGU
BY: TIMOTHY PAUL OKOROCHA
Controller of the Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone ‘C’ Owerri, Compt M.C Ugbagu has said that the operations of the Unit is more of intelligence-driven than just stopping and searching of vehicles ferrying suspected cargoes.
In a chat with our Editor in Owerri, he disclosed that his mandate was well carved out –to intercept uncustomed items that are inimical to the nation’s economy and well-being. “Infact, the interception of containerized contraband items, ensuring that Bonded terminal operators are not involved in revenue leakages as well as ensuring trade facilitation are core to our functions, he stated.
Ugbagu noted that under his stewardship, the Unit would ensure that fiscal policies as they relate to imports and exports are strictly adhered to. He disclosed that he has continued to hold stakeholders’ meetings to network on how best they can align with all the imports/exports guidelines and not fall foul of the laws.
The FOU ‘C’ boss stated that he has held meetings with car dealers Association in the East to remind them of the opportunity given by government to regularize the documents of their vehicles that came through illegal routes. According to him; vehicle dealers still have some time within the 3-months window given by the government after which the Customs would mobilize to confiscate such vehicles.
Since he assumed office around April 22nd, the Unit has been able to make remarkable seizures, comprising logs of wood, controlled medicaments, Tokunbo cars, rice and pangolin materials, with some suspects in its custody.
Compt Ugbagu noted that the Unit is also improving and assisting in revenue generation by identifying noticeable infringements. “We will continue to make seizures against smugglers, we will monitor the movement of containerized goods, and no intimidation will deter us”.
Superintending over 11-States of the South-East/South-South, Ugbagu who has been Area Controller of the Eastern Marine Command before he was deployed to the FOU ‘C’ said he was eager to make a difference using technology to track Economic saboteurs in the garb of smugglers.
He is also determined to work on the human resource available in the zone to key into his new vision of anti-smuggling operations in the region. He advised importers to embrace proper documentation in all their imports in order not to run into problems with the laws.