Smuggling Ring Allegedly Involving Army, Police, and Customs Officers Making N4–N6 Billion Weekly — Border Insiders Claim

A major smuggling network operating across the Seme–Badagry and Idi Iroko borders is reportedly generating between N4 billion and N6 billion every week, according to insiders familiar with activities along the corridors.

Sources who spoke under anonymity allege that the syndicate includes rogue elements within the Nigerian Army, Police, and Customs Service, working in collaboration with civilian smugglers to move banned or heavily taxed goods into the country.

According to the insiders, the smuggling routes are well-structured, with different security operatives assigned to protect specific checkpoints and facilitate safe passage for contraband. Payments are allegedly shared across multiple layers of the network, ensuring seamless operations and minimal interference from honest officers.

Goods smuggled reportedly include premium motor spirit (PMS), foreign rice, frozen poultry, textiles, and various high-value cargo. The alleged revenue — running into billions weekly — has raised concern about the scale of economic sabotage occurring at Nigeria’s borders.

Economic analysts warn that such massive leakages undermine government revenue, cripple local industries, and worsen inflationary pressures. They argue that the persistence of organized smuggling reflects deep-rooted corruption and weak oversight within key security institutions.

Meanwhile, anti-corruption advocates are calling for an independent investigation into the claims, urging the federal government to dismantle entrenched criminal networks that compromise national security and economic stability.

As of the time of reporting, none of the implicated security agencies have issued an official statement addressing the allegations.