The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), in its continued efforts to combat the menace of smuggling in the country, has charged Jabir Mohamed, also known as Mai Gella, to the Federal High Court in Yola.
The defendant was arraigned today, Thursday, on a three-count charge at the Federal High Court in Yola.
In the first count, Jabir Mohamed is accused of possessing 80 × 25 liters of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) without lawful authority on September 25, 2024, in Mubi South, Adamawa State.
This offense contravenes Section 1(17)(a) of the Miscellaneous Offences Act Cap M17, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, and is punishable under Section 1(17)(b) of the same Act.
In the second count, the defendant is charged with attempting to export the 80 × 25 liters of PMS, in violation of Section 1(19) of the Miscellaneous Offences Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.
The third count involves the unlawful possession of 25 rounds of ammunition, which is against the Firearms Act and punishable under Section 27 of the Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.
The case is being heard by Justice Bala Khalifa Mohamed, who, after hearing arguments from the prosecuting counsel, Adewumi Aluko Abidemi, and defense counsel, Garba Yenusa Esq., adjourned the case to November 11, 2024, for further proceedings. The court also ordered that the defendant be remanded at the Yola Correctional Center.
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Following the court session, prosecuting counsel Adewumi Aluko spoke to journalists, emphasizing that this case is part of the Nigeria Customs Service’s broader effort to combat smuggling in the country.
He reiterated that the NCS is committed to stemming the tide of illegal activities.
Defense counsel Garba Yenusa, on his part, stated that his client is entitled to bail, and that they would take all necessary steps to secure his release while working to prove his innocence.
It is important to note that Jabir Mohamed was arrested by the Nigeria Customs Service during Operation Whirlwind in the Mubi area, which borders Nigeria and Cameroon.
