The Nigeria Customs Service has successfully repatriated 21 stolen vehicles to Canada in a significant international operation against vehicle theft. Customs Comptroller-General Adewale Adeniyi made the announcement in Lagos, revealing that the vehicles were intercepted at Onne Port and Tincan Island Port, with three 2021 Toyota Highlanders confirmed stolen through INTERPOL.
Speaking on the development, CCG Adeniyi expressed concern over West Africa’s growing role as a hub for global stolen vehicle trade. He warned that international trafficking networks are targeting the region, necessitating stronger enforcement measures to curb the trend.
He said, “The success of Operation Hot Wheel highlights how effective partnerships strengthen our collective capacity to combat transnational crime in today’s interconnected world. As we prepare to hand over these vehicles to our colleagues, the Canadian authorities, our actions today must send a clear and firm message to criminals, enterprises, entrepreneurs and bodies all over the world. And the firm message is that Nigeria stands resolutely against criminal networks and our borders will not serve as transit points or safe havens for stolen vehicles or any form of illicit goods.We will continue to work tirelessly with our international partners to protect our economy and preserve our national integrity.”
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The repatriation was part of “Operation Hot Wheels,” a multi-agency collaboration involving the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), INTERPOL, and Canadian authorities. The initiative is aimed at dismantling transnational vehicle trafficking networks and enhancing border security.
Mr. Adeniyi noted that such efforts are vital to safeguarding Nigeria’s automotive market from illegal activity while aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s economic reform agenda. He reassured Nigerians that Customs will continue to strengthen partnerships to protect the nation’s interests.
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