Crime Puzzle

17/01/2025

The Amazon is 60, glory be to God

17/01/2025

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) is elated to unveil its remarkable accomplishments for the year 2024, epitomizing its unwavering dedication to preserving lives, optimizing traffic flow, and executing timely interventions throughout Lagos State.

ShareThe Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) is elated to unveil its remarkable accomplishments for...

17/01/2025

Four suspects, from whom various counterfeit monies of different countries were recovered, have been taken into custody by the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).

ShareFour suspects, from whom various counterfeit monies of different countries were recovered, have been taken...

17/01/2025

My better half attains Diamond age, glory be to God

17/01/2025

FROM A GRATEFUL HEART

In appreciating your goodwill messages and prayers for me, which flooded my page, timeline; some as sms and voice calls, as I marked my birthday, sincerely, I was overwhelmed by the torrents of messages from family members, friends - known and unknown. It was, indeed, a moment to reflect on, as it showed your love for me. I can't thank you enough but, rather, commit you all into the Hands of the most high God, and pray that joy shall not cease from your respective homes. Once again, I SAY, thank you all and remain blessed.

26/07/2024

Operation Whirlwind, Again, Outsmarts Smugglers, Seizes 41,425 Litres of PMS Valued @ N48.5m in Adamawa Axis

By Felix Mordi

Operation Whirlwind, jointly coordinated by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), to checkmate smugglers of petroleum products out of the country has, again, intercepted Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) with a cumulative duty paid value of N48,547,500.

The seizures, in the Service's delineated Zone 'D' Area, Yola in Adamawa State, totalling 41,425 litres, comprised 1,481 kegs of PMS and 20 drums, containing 25 litres and 220 litres each.

Also seized were nine means of conveyance, the National Coordinator of Whirlwind, Comptroller Husseini Kolawole Ejibunu, disclosed at a press briefing held at the Customs House in Yola on Wednesday, July 24.

The interceptions, according to the coordinator, were made at different locations and dates across Mubi-Sahuda Road, Girei-Wuro Boki axis, Maiha Road, Agwuwa Tana- Bakin Kogi axis and other places within the zone.

He said the squad's operations, in collaboration with NMDPRA, monitor the supply and distribution chain of the product right from the depot of loading up to the final destination (Retail Outlets) to ensure PMS reached its manifested destinations.

Ejibunu listed the Operation Whirlwind's achievements since inception, saying that at the maiden press conference, held in Yola, Adamawa State on May 31, 2024, two weeks after inauguration of the special operations, the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, displayed a combined total seizure of 280, 135 liters of PMS, worth over N195.5 Million

"Just last week, I did a press conference in Lagos, Kebbi and Calabar, all in zones A, B & C, respectively, during Which I showcased huge seizures o f petroleum products. This is in continuation of our resolve to disrupt and dismantle the network of cartels/smugglers of Premium Motor Spirit", Comptroller Ejibunu stated.

Speaking further, Ejibunu said, "In line with the CGC's mandate to curtail the smuggling and diversion of the PMS products, Operation Whirlwind has repositioned all its operatives across the frontiers, despite all threats such as assault and harassment from the economic saboteurs as seen and witnessed in some social platforms.

"This will not hinder us from discharging our statutory duties. We will not relent in this fight until we bring smuggling activities to hold", he said.

While encouraging patriotic Nigerians and genuine oil marketers to continue doing their normal businesses "without fear of molestation and confiscation of their product", Ejibunu said, "this fight is against illicit oil marketers and economic saboteurs, as the team is out to facilitate legitimate trade as enshrined in the NCS Act, 2023".

According to him, the successes recorded so far was predicated on the enabling environment and the unwavering efforts of the Nigeria Customs Service management team, under the stewardship of Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.

He also acknowledged the cooperation and strong support from Adamawa/Taraba Area Command of the Service as well as and other units of the Service such as FOU 'D', CIU, SIS, stating that "other security agencies equally played a vital role in this accomplishments".

Warning the PMS smuggling cartels to have a re-think and resort to legitimate businesses, the Operation Whirlwind National Coordinator said the squad there is no place for their illegal activities as, according to him, "We will continue to go after them as economic saboteurs".

"The illegal exportation Of Nigeria's PMS to neighboring countries will not be tolerated by Nigeria customs service", he warned. .

26/07/2024

Onne 2 Customs Command Generates N312bn in First Half of 2024, Seizes Illicit Pharmaceutical Products Valued @ ₦11.2bn

By Felix Mordi

The Onne 2 Area Command of Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has, in its first half of 2024, generated a revenue Three Hundred and Twelve Billion, Ninety-four Million, Three Hundred and Sixty-seven Thousand, One Hundred and Twenty-four Naira, Fifty-eaAight Kobo (₦312,094,367,124.58).

This figure, according to the Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Mohammed Babandede, amounts to 50.5 percent of the command's annual target.

Babandede, at a press briefing on Thursday, July 25, disclosed that, with few days to the end of the month, the command had generated Forty-eight Billion, Fifty-six Million, Eight Hundred and Six Thousand, Six Hundred and Ninety-two Naira (₦48,056,806,692.00).

He equally showcased the seizure of seven containers, laden with various contraband pharmaceutical products, with an estimated value of Eleven Billion, Two Million Naira (₦11,200,000,000).

These, according to the Area Controller, comprised 1,054,400 bottles of different cough syrup codeine (100ml); 9,100 pieces of Chilly Cutter; 2,175,000 tablets of Hyergra tablets (200mg) and 1,300,000 tablets of Really Extra Diclofenac pain relief tablets (50mg), all of which, he said, would formally be handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation.

Speaking on the containers were intercepted, the CAC said: "in line with the CGC policy thrust of collaboration and consolidation, the command, on receipt of creditable intelligence on some 40 feet containers, sprang into action. In collaboration with National Drug law Enforcement Agency, Onne Port Chapter, these containers were Identified, positioned and jointly examined in the presence of sister agencies.

Meanwhile, Compt. Babandede noted that ongoing investigation would, in the long run, unravel those behind the illicit pharmaceutical importation, and would be made to face the full wrath of the law, that attracts a jail term.

"We are determined to increase our revenue profile and at the same time working tirelessly in protecting public health and safety", he stated, while expressing concern that, despite smugglers' colossal loses, in terms of seizure of their goods, they still remain adamant
in the illegality.

"It is worrisome that some Nigerians remain unrepentant even as they continue to lose.
We wish to reiterate the resolve of the Nigeria Customs Service, Area 2 Command, Onne under the present Comptroller General of Customs, will not tolerate any action that compromises the economy and security of our beloved nation". he said.

25/07/2024

Sango-Otta: A Gory Sight to Behold

By Felix Mordi

The Sango-Otta round about on the Lagos/Abeokuta-Expressway in Ogun State has abysmally degenerated into a calamitous state of disrepair, no thanks to blockage of the entire drainage system.

This has consequently resulted to inexplicable disorderliness, as roadside traders, sacked by deluge of waste waters, now resort to indiscriminate display of their wares on available spaces on the dry portion of the road, and in specific terms, the round about.

Commercial transport operators, comprising mini-buses, fondly called 'korope', tricycles and motorcycles, are not left out in the disorderly manner of occupancy on the road, in search of passengers.

Pedestrians and motor vehicles from the popular Sango Garage inward under bridge, navigate alternative routes, to avoid the messy axis, with motorists, particularly cars and mini-buses, making use of the hitherto abandoned Temidire Road en-route Ijoko Road.

However, heavy duty vehicles like trucks of various sizes and tankers, have no option than wallow in the dirty and stinking water, as the Temidire Road is too narrow for their likes.

But smarting from the ugly development, a group of concerned indigenes of Sango and individuals with their business concerns within the area, apparently counting their loses to the unfriendly atmosphere, have commenced palliative work on the road.

Championing that course is one Bello Sherif Ajibola, who has been going round to source money from owners/occupants of shopping complexes and Butchers Association.

Bello, in an exclusive interview with Crime Puzzle, said the palliative work entail freeing the drainage of dirt, both mechanically and manually; evacuating the dirt through hiring of tipper lorries to dump sites and filling the grossly failed portion with granite.

Our reporter witnessed the commencement of the palliative work on Tuesday, July 23, and saw a hired excavator at work, as well as those contracted to manually clear the portions of the drainage where the excavator could not be put to use.

Speaking on the estimated amount to be expended on the project, Bello said it would gulp up to Five Million Naira (N5m).

According to him, the excavator is expected to work for four days at Two Hundred and Fifty Thousand (N250,000) per day, starting from Tuesday, July 23.

"We will have to hire tipper lorries to evacuate the dirt to dump sites at Fifty Thousand Naira (N50,000) per trip. We don't know how many trips each tipper will go, because the dirt is much. Aside this, we will have to pay for the services of those to be engaged in the loading of the tippers. After all these, we will then purchase granite and still pay for the leveling", he stated.

On the possible cause of the drainage blockage, Bello attributed it to the careless attitude of traders who, he accused of throwing all sorts of dirt into drainage.

"For instance, you need to see all that was evacuated from the drainage. It consists of cattle bones, empty table water bottles, sachet water nylons and empty take-away. In fact, we are the architects of our woes", Bello stated.

On steps to be taken to prevent future blockage of drainage, he said each complex would be mandated to mount iron barriers in their drainage, "this will act as a filter of dirt".

Continuing, Bello appealed to the state government to make available big waste bins, all over the area, where people can dump their wastes.

Speaking on the efforts of the the state government in ameliorating the problem, he said the Senior Special Adviser to the Governor on Environment once came, and ordered the clearing of one portion of the drainage. "He spent about Four Hundred Thousand Naira (N400,000), that I am aware of.

He, however, said that plans are underway to set up and empower a taskforce that will be working all round the clock, to arrest whoever is caught constituting nuisance.

24/07/2024

So-Safe Corps Moves to Enhance Security in Ogun, Trains Over 600 Personnel

By Felix Mordi

Poised to further impact its relevance in the security architecture of Ogun State, the state-owned security apparatus, the Ogun State Community, Social Orientation and Safety Corps (So-Safe Corps), has trained over 600 personnel to enhance the state's security system.

The three-week training, held in Ilaro, headquarters of Yew-north Local Government Area of the state, was organized in conjunction with the Ogun State Police Command, and also featured lectures on the theme: "Effective Community Policing as Solution to Cybercrime and other Related Crimes".

Other aspects touched at the programme were physical training exercises (martial arts), held during the parade; peacekeeping and intervention; crime and society, unconventional and guerrilla warfare security operations; criminal investigation and intelligence; illicit drug crime; and crime prevention.

The Corps Commander, Dr. Soji Ganzallo, in a statement issued by the Corps Director of Information and Public Relations, ACC Moruf Yusuf, said the programmed was aimed at equipping the personnel with necessary knowledge and skills to combat modern security challenges of kidnapping, banditry and ritualistic crimes.

Ganzallo made this disclosure on Tuesday, July 23, at the final day of the training, and assured that the Corps would continue to prioritize training of its personnel, to prepare them adequately with the challenges of providing security for the entire state.

Addressing the officers, the Corps Commander said: “I want to sincerely appreciate your obedience during the training, for exhibiting discipline in the way of doing your things, I must appreciate you for your sacrifice towards ensuring Ogun State is safe for all and sundry.

"I hope you have imbibed yourself with the series of lectures by the officer of Ogun State Police and other agencies, and I believe you have learnt from the Corps instructors as well.

“Our expectations after this training were to ensure that security personnel, particularly So-Safe corps, are well equipped and to prepare them ahead of the forthcoming election.

“We have been proactive and made our officers combat ready, and they can be able to face any challenges ahead of us", Ganzallo stated.

He also expressed his appreciation to the state government for providing an enable environment for the Corps to operate, noting that its (So-Safe) collaboration with other security agencies had been instrumental to its significant record of achievements, thereby ranking the state amongst the most peaceful states in Nigeria.

The state Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftiancy Affairs, Hon. Ganiyu Hamzat, represented by the Deputy Director in the ministry, Mrs. Bose Olaniyan, enjoined the officers to continue their good works, urging them to assiduously apply all the training acquired in their day-to-day activities as security actors in the state.

Hon. Hamzat appreciated organisers of the security training programme, saying, "your tireless efforts in coordination and executing this initiative have not gone unnoticed. Your dedication to enhancing the skills and knowledge of our security personnel is truly commendable, and we appreciate your commitment to excellence and your passion for fostering a culture of safety and resilience".

To the trainees, he charged them to imbibe the culture of integrity, professionalism and dedication, "which should be your greatest assets, stay true to your values and always prioritize safety and security".

Present at the ceremony were Bishop A.P. Olaitan (Chairman So-Safe Marshal), Mr. Akinlabi Opeyemi (Admin Officer, Ministry of Local Government and Chieftiancy Affairs), Alhaji Shuaib Aro, among other important dignitaries.

07/04/2024

2024 Customs N5.7tr Revenue Target: Compt.
Jaiyeoba Blazes Trail, Rakes in N489b in Apapa Port Command's First Quarter, Harps on Benefits of Compliance

By Felix Mordi

The Apapa Command of Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has distinguished itself as a trail blazer by exhibiting its unequivocal commitment to ensuring that the Service meets its N5.7tr target for year 2024.

An indication to this effect was its 2024 first quarter performance, during which it generated N489,614,095,022.15, representing over one hundred per cent difference from the N212.5b collected same period in 2023.

The Customs Area Controller (CAC) of the command, Comptroller Babajide Jaiyeoba, alluded the laudable feat to the cooperation of
officers and port stakeholders, while calling for sustained compliance by government and private sector stakeholders.

According to the command's Public Relations Officer (CPRO), CSC Abubakar Usman, in a press statement, "The Controller reminded them that the Apapa Command of the NCS is playing a critical role towards the realisation of the N5.7tr annual target of the NCS in 2024 and as such all hands should be on deck to achieve it".

The CAC noted that the almost N 2 trillion target expected from the command in 2024
"is attainable through diligently abiding by the service books of instructions like the Nigeria Customs Service Act (NCSA) 2023, government import/export prohibition lists, Common External Tariff and Federal Government approved Standard Operating Procedures (SOP)".

He thanked the officers for their punctuality, diligence, and non compromise in the discharge of their responsibilities, even as he reminded them of the confidence vested in them by CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi and the Customs Management.

Also, according to the statement, the CAC reminded them that the present customs management had created room for multiple benefits for those who operate in compliance with the rules, saying that the recently launched Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) is one of such benefits.

Jaiyeoba described the command's first quarter collection as a bold step towards realizing the target, and re-emphasized the importance of compliance to all port as having multiple benefits

His words: I want to urge all stakeholders in Apapa Port to keep supporting us in achieving an efficient system where everyone plays by the rules to achieve smoother, seamless, and faster import/export cargo clearance

"Making honest declaration puts the declarant at a vantage position to have a credible reputation and enjoy the benefits that come with earned integrity, such as fast track and possible migration to the authorised economic operator(AEO)

"Such attitude of compliance saves time and money, as examination officers would find the cargo less cumbersome to process and other units of the Service, including sister government organisation's, would not need to flag such cargo for seizure or arrest of the importers/exporters. The cargo gets cleared on time, and payments for penalties after demand notices are not necessary, as no DN is issued on compliant import/export.

"I will continue my weekly engagement of stakeholders at various levels, to sustain the tempo of our achievements and consolidate on the gains from regular enlightenment of every member of the port community.

"As we step into the second quarter to end the first half of 2024, I am convinced we will do better in revenue collection, facilitate more trade through our port and prevent smuggling under any guise", the CAC said.

05/04/2024

CGC Adeniyi Hosts Dignitaries to Ramadan Iftar, Calls for National Unity in Line with Ramadan Teachings

By Felix Mordi

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, Tuesday, April 2, urged Nigerians to embrace the teachings of Ramadan, reiterating that only through eschewing bitterness, accommodating one another, and living with one another in peace and harmony can people achieve a prosperous country.

CGC Adeniyi made this disclosure during the breaking of the 23rd Ramadan fast with the Chairman of the Trade Modernization Project, Saleh Ahmadu, and other distinguished personalities at the Nigeria Customs Management Estate in Abuja.

He said, “As a responsible organisation, the Nigeria Customs Service will continue to uphold the spirit of Ramadan.

“It is not by coincidence that just a few hours ago, we as a nation, celebrated Easter – and we are approaching the end of Ramadan, another remarkable Eid. What these events tend to show us is that in this country, what unites us is far more than what divides us", he added.

The CGC, who conveyed the message of Islamic teachings about the symbiosis of dedication and commitment to showing love among one another during Ramadan, reiterated the significance of devoting oneself to intensive prayers, giving charity and alms to the poor, and serving mankind, among other things.

“These are the basic teachings of Ramadan, and they are also the same in all religions that we know. Because I do know that there is no religion that does not emphasise bringing people together and helping the needy or giving charity,” the Comptroller-General of Customs said.

Speaking further, CGC Adeniyi also used the medium to call on Nigerians to embrace the teachings of Ramadan in their daily activities, stressing that, “We have a big social problem in Nigeria, where many people are going hungry every day; so many people are fasting but don’t even know where they will break their fast due to food insecurity in the country".

According to him, addressing the challenge of food security is a collective responsibility for all, adding, “The president is leading the charge through his various programs and policies, to curb food insecurity in Nigeria".

He also re-emphasized the Nigeria Customs Service’s commitment to extending a generous hand to Nigerians in this trying time through implementing measures that would make food abundant to Nigerians. “I therefore enjoin all of us to eschew bitterness and accommodate one another in peace and harmony,” he added.

On his part, representative of the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Economy, Wale Edun, Director of Finance at the Ministry of Home Finance, Aliyu Muhammad, appreciated the Comptroller-General for organising the Iftar which, according to him, signifies the unity and diversity of Nigeria.

He re-echoed the commitment of the Finance Minister to continue partnering with the Nigeria Customs Service to implement policies that will boost the economic stability of Nigeria further.

Among other prominent figures at the Iftar ceremony were the Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps, DCM Kazeem, Professor Tunji Ola, Chairman of the Federal Civil Service Commission, Mr Bamanga Usman, Managing Director of the Oil and Gas Authority, and members of the Trade Modernization Project team led by Chairman Saleh Ahmadu.

05/04/2024

24-yr-old Kleptomaniac Ex-convict Warms Way Back to Correctional Centre 3 Months After Release

By Felix Mordi

Barely three months after a 24-year-old man was released from a correctional centre, having being convicted for stealing, he has, again, been arrested for a similar offence.

The suspect, Ezekiel Victor Thankgod, was nabbed by operatives of the Ogun State Community, Social Orientation, and Safety Corps (So-Safe) vandalizing, with the intent of stealing an outdoor Royal air conditioner (Model: R410) from Covenant Stores, Oju-Ore, in the Ado-Odo/Otta Local Government Area.

In a statement issued by the Corps Commander, Dr. Soji Ganzallo, through the Agency's Director of Information and Public Relations, Assistant Commander Moruf Yusuf, the suspect was arrested on April 3, at about 03:00am, by a patrol team attached to the Iyesi Area Command of the Corps, headed by ACP Samuel Yusuf.

A resident of Tokis Street, behind Covenant Store, preliminary investigation conducted by the Corps, revealed that "the suspect has a history of stealing money and phones, and was released from a correctional centre in January, 2024", the statement disclosed.

Having confessed to the crime, the suspect further revealed that he had no fixed address, adding that he was mostly within Oloko Community in Ota.

The statement listed items found in his possession to include charms, a local instrument used for drug paraphernalia, a lighter, a local ring, and cowries, all of which have been handed over to the Onipanu Divisional Police Headquarters, alongside
the suspect, for further investigation and prosecution.