PORT SUDAN, June 4, 2026 (SUNA) – Minister of Interior, Lieutenant General (Police) Babiker Samra Mustafa, commended the growing national role played by the Customs Forces in protecting the national economy and safeguarding the country’s resources, stressing the importance of continuing anti-smuggling efforts and developing institutional performance. The remarks came during his inspection visit on Thursday to the Red Sea Customs Directorate, accompanied by a high-level delegation from the Ministry of Interior. He was received by Director-General of the Customs Forces Lieutenant General (Police) Salah Ahmed Ibrahim, Director of Red Sea Customs Major General (Police) Magdi Madani Al-Sheikh, and a number of customs and field commanders.   The minister began his visit with a field tour of an accompanying exhibition showcasing samples of major seizures made by the Customs Forces. He also inspected the Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA) hall and reviewed the level of services and procedures provided to clients. He praised the high level of vigilance and professionalism demonstrated by customs personnel, affirming that the Customs Forces represent the first line of defense against smuggling and in protection of the national economy. The minister stressed that customs authorities play a pivotal role in supporting the national economy and preserving state resources, noting that anti-gold smuggling efforts directly contribute to increasing revenues and securing foreign currency. He further commended the sacrifices made by customs personnel at various work sites and praised their distinguished performance despite challenges and exceptional circumstances. On institutional development, the Interior Minister stressed the importance of keeping pace with technological advancements and benefiting from digital transformation to simplify and facilitate customs procedures in a way that ensures speed, efficiency, and transparency in service delivery. He also called for strengthening specialized training and qualification programs, emphasizing that capacity-building and professional development are essential for modernizing customs work and meeting future requirements. For his part, Lieutenant General Salah Ahmed Ibrahim welcomed the minister’s visit, stating that it reflects the state leadership’s and Ministry of Interior’s commitment to developing customs work and supporting personnel. He affirmed that the Customs Forces are moving ahead with plans aimed at enhancing revenues, tightening control over crossings and ports, and improving customs services in support of the national economy. Meanwhile, Major General Magdi Madani Al-Sheikh described the visit as a major morale boost for customs personnel, reaffirming the commitment of Customs Forces to remain vigilant in protecting the nation’s resources and gains.BH/BH