The Joint Border Patrol Team (JBPT) Sector 2 has generated revenue of N36.7 billion and intercepted smuggled weapons, illicit drugs, prohibited goods, and other items in its ongoing efforts to combat cross-border crimes.
This was revealed on Friday by Deputy Comptroller Mohammed Salisu Shuaibu during a press briefing at the Customs Training College in Ikeja, Lagos.
Shuaibu explained that the JBPT Sector 2, formerly known as “Operation Swift Response”, was inaugurated on August 20, 2019, to address the security challenges posed by smuggling and other transnational crimes. These include the proliferation of small and light weapons, illicit drugs, and other prohibited goods across Nigeria’s international borders.
Coordinated by the Office of the National Security Adviser, the JBPT operates under the leadership of the Nigerian Customs Service, working in collaboration with the Armed Forces, Police, Immigration Service, Department of State Services, and the National Intelligence Agency. This multi-agency approach aims to bolster border security and curb the flow of illicit goods into the country.
Highlighting the team’s achievements, Shuaibu noted that JBPT Sector 2 has seized goods with a Duty Paid Value exceeding N36.7 billion and intercepted 1,507 irregular immigrants.
He said the team also contributed N1.14 billion to the Federal Government’s revenue through auction sales of confiscated petroleum products. These efforts have disrupted supply chains for goods with significant security implications, further enhancing national safety.
One of the recent successes, reported on December 3, 2024, involved the interception of six pump-action rifles and 1,125 live cartridges concealed in sacks of cassava flakes. The discovery followed the suspicious behavior of a man who abandoned a Toyota Camry along the Okerete-Ododo bush path in Oyo State. Upon inspection, the firearms—bearing unique serial numbers—were uncovered, highlighting the team’s vigilance in curbing arms smuggling.
Other notable seizures include parboiled rice, pangolin scales, premium motor spirit, frozen food products, used clothing, vegetable oil, and a range of vehicles. Additionally, the team disrupted 280 suspected cases of human trafficking and seized 1,190 means of conveyance used for illegal activities.
Despite encountering operational challenges, Shuaibu commended the JBPT Sector 2 for overcoming these hurdles through stakeholder collaboration, innovative problem-solving, and effective leadership.
He acknowledged the dedication and sacrifices of the officers and personnel across the various component agencies, as well as the support of patriotic citizens and stakeholders in the fight against cross-border crimes.
The Deputy Comptroller emphasised that the JBPT remains steadfast in its mission to strengthen Nigeria’s border security and safeguard the nation from threats posed by smuggling and related criminal activities.
Several officers of the Joint Border Patrol Team Sector 2 were recognised and awarded for their outstanding performance, aimed at motivating them to continue exceeding expectations