Nigeria Customs returns stolen luxury cars worth N1.8bn to Canada

Nigeria’s Customs Service (NCS) has handed over 21 stolen luxury cars worth over N1.8 billion to the Canadian government. The cars, which include Rolls Royce, Lamborghini Huracan, Mercedes-AMG, and Range Rover models, were transferred during a ceremony at the Federal Operations Unit (FOU) in Lagos on Tuesday.

The handover followed “Operation Hot Wheels,” a joint initiative involving the NCS, Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and Canadian authorities. The operation targeted a rising trend of transnational vehicle theft, with West Africa becoming a growing hub for stolen luxury vehicles.

A Global Effort to Combat Vehicle Theft

Customs Comptroller General Adewale Adeniyi stated that the vehicles were smuggled into Nigeria using forged documents after being stolen from Canada, the U.S., and Europe. He noted that intelligence from international agencies revealed West Africa as a preferred destination for stolen luxury cars, damaging Nigeria’s economy and global reputation.

“These crimes strain our security systems and disrupt Nigeria’s legitimate automotive market, causing significant revenue losses,” Adeniyi said. He emphasized that combating the influx of stolen vehicles requires resources that could otherwise support economic growth initiatives.

Sophisticated Smuggling Networks

The smugglers used advanced techniques to disguise the stolen vehicles. For instance, a 40-foot container intercepted at Onne Port was falsely declared to carry used cars and auto parts. Inside were three undeclared 2021 Toyota Highlanders, two of which were confirmed stolen from Canada.

Additional seizures included:

• Mercedes-Benz G550 and Range Rover Sport valued at N506.8 million, intercepted in Lagos.
• Mercedes-AMG GT and Lamborghini Huracan, worth N630.8 million, recovered along major Lagos routes.
• A Rolls Royce (N231.8 million) and a 2019 Lamborghini (N239.1 million), intercepted in Victoria Island.
• Two Range Rovers, 2023 and 2018 models, valued at N267.1 million, seized at Lekki and the Tincan Island Command.

The operation showed the economic and security implications of transnational vehicle theft. Adeniyi highlighted the urgent need for improved border controls and verification systems to address the crisis. “We must act decisively to protect our economy and safeguard Nigeria’s global image,” he added.

Authorities hope that collaborative efforts like “Operation Hot Wheels” will deter vehicle theft syndicates while reinforcing international partnerships.

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