Smugglers using fake presidential number plates, others – Customs

Mr. Chedi Wada, the Comptroller of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) at the Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone “B” in Kaduna, expressed concern over the increasing use of counterfeit presidential number plates by smugglers to transport vehicles across the country.

Wada revealed that these smugglers have resorted to deceptively employing fake number plates associated with various states, local governments, Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), as well as Emirate Councils and other governmental institutions.

During a courtesy call from Bashir Rabe-Mani, the Zonal Manager of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in the Kaduna Zonal Office, Wada emphasized the Customs Service’s commitment to thwarting smugglers’ attempts to exploit tactics such as using fake presidential number plates and other government-related identifiers to smuggle high-end vehicles into the country.

Wada stated, “Customs will not relent and will continue to do its best by preventing smugglers from employing outdated methods, such as using fake presidential number plates and other governmental institutions, to facilitate the smuggling of luxurious vehicles into the country.”

Expressing disappointment, Wada highlighted the audacity of vehicle smugglers in undermining the nation’s apex leadership by affixing counterfeit presidential number plates to newly smuggled cars, attempting to deceive customs officials.

He reassured that customs personnel are well-trained and adept at identifying fake number plates, making it difficult for smugglers to succeed using old tricks. Wada emphasized the Customs Service’s commitment to upholding the integrity of the presidency and urged smugglers to show respect for the highest office in the country.