The Nigeria Customs Service has seized prohibited goods worth over N273.6 million smuggled into Cross River and Akwa Ibom States.

The Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Momodu Dauda, at a press briefing in Calabar, said operatives intercepted two 20-foot containers carrying 1,996 kegs of imported vegetable oil valued at over N195 million.

Dauda added that the command also seized 1,500 imported used tyres, 105 jumbo bales of second-hand clothing, and 800 litres of Premium Motor Spirit.

He said the items are on the Federal Government's Import Prohibition List and were seized in line with the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023 and existing trade regulations.

The Area Controller noted that the seizures are aimed at protecting local industries, promoting domestic production and safeguarding the nation's economy.

Dauda warned smugglers to desist from illegal activities, stressing that the Service will continue intelligence-led operations to combat economic sabotage and facilitate legitimate trade.