The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has thwarted an attempt to smuggle food items out of Nigeria, intercepting 21 trucks loaded with provisions destined for neighbouring countries.
This seizure by EFCC operatives from the Maiduguri Zonal Command comes amidst a backdrop of soaring food prices in Nigeria, where inflation has surged to 29.90 percent, sparking protests across the nation.
The operation, carried out along major exit routes in Borno State, revealed a clandestine attempt to transport goods to N’djamena, Chad Republic, Central African Republic, and Cameroon. The items, cleverly concealed within the trucks, were detected thanks to the vigilant efforts of EFCC agents.
“These trucks were intercepted in a sting operation, preventing a substantial loss of food resources from Nigeria,” stated the EFCC in a statement released. Further investigation revealed that the waybills accompanying the goods indicated their intended destinations as neighbouring countries, underscoring the extent of the smuggling operation.
The EFCC emphasized the importance of this interception in curbing food insecurity exacerbated by the activities of unscrupulous smugglers. The arrested suspects are currently undergoing profiling, with plans to prosecute them once investigations are complete.
Meanwhile, Nigeria grapples with the repercussions of skyrocketing food prices, which have led to the hijacking of warehouses and food trucks in various parts of the country. In response, the Federal Government has unveiled measures to alleviate the impact, including nationwide grain distribution slated to commence later in the week.
