The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has intercepted 21 food trucks en route to neighbouring countries, as announced in a statement on its official platform on Tuesday.
Operatives of the EFCC Maiduguri Zonal Command executed the seizure, uncovering the trucks at major exit routes along Kalabiri/Gamboru Ngala and Bama roads in Borno State during a sting operation.
The statement highlighted that the trucks were laden with food items covertly concealed, with their Waybills indicating destinations such as N’djamena (Chad Republic), Central African Republic, and Cameroon.
This interception is expected to curb food insecurity exacerbated by the nefarious activities of smugglers nationwide. The arrested suspects are currently undergoing profiling, and the EFCC affirms its commitment to prosecute them upon the conclusion of investigations.
This development occurs amidst the backdrop of surging food prices in Nigeria, with inflation soaring to 29.90 percent and triggering protests in various regions. Despite these challenges, the Federal Government is implementing measures to alleviate the burden, including nationwide grain distribution set to commence later this week.
President Bola Tinubu’s administration remains resolute in its reform agenda, which includes the floating of the naira and the cessation of the subsidy regime, urging patience as these reforms take effect.
