By Harriet Tornguvan-Abuja
The Nigeria Customs Service held a press briefing at the Murtala Muhammed Area Command in Ikeja, Lagos, to announce a significant achievement in their ongoing efforts to secure national borders and enhance national security.
The Comptroller of Customs Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR reported that the Nigeria Customs TCIP Command recently seized 11 rifles and 6 pistols. Additionally, a press briefing in Port Harcourt two days ago highlighted the seizure of 844 rifles and 112,500 rounds of ammunition.
On June 19, 2024, the Murtala Muhammed Area Command, acting on credible intelligence from both local and international sources, deployed personnel to thoroughly examine all exit points, mandating a 100% examination of all consignments. A consignment with airway bill number 235-58737755 from Turkey was found to contain 55 unassembled JOJEF MAGNUM (TOMAHAWK) semi-automatic shotguns concealed in shower faucets. The Duty Paid Value of these illicit arms is estimated at N270,888,109.29. A suspect is currently in custody and assisting with ongoing investigations.
Adeniyi noted that intelligence indicates some Nigerians based in Turkey are involved in purchasing, packaging, and exporting these arms to Nigeria. The Customs Service is aware that these individuals are exploring new methods to continue their activities, but all Commands are vigilant and prepared to intercept such illicit imports.
In addition to the firearms, improperly imported military and paramilitary equipment, with a Duty Paid Value of N1,298,019,276.91, will also be displayed. These items include:
- 148 drones
- 172 ballistic vests
- 15 ballistic plates
- 1 ballistic helmet
- 8 walkie talkies
- 9,172 military and paramilitary badges
- 20 camouflage uniforms
- 100 camouflage vests
- 172 camouflage caps
- 120 binoculars
The total Duty Paid Value of all displayed items is N1,568,907,386.48.
According to the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, the following actions have been taken:
-The 55 unassembled JOJEF MAGNUM shotguns and concealing items have been seized.
-These items will be handed over to the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons for investigation and prosecution.
-The suspect will be processed, and collaboration with other agencies will continue to apprehend all parties involved.
-All controlled items without the requisite end-user certificates have been seized.
-Officers responsible for this successful seizure will be rewarded in accordance with the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023.
Comptroller Adeniyi commended Customs Area Comptroller MMAC, MT AWE, and his officers for their professionalism and dedication.
This seizure serves as a clear warning to those contemplating similar illegal activities. The Nigeria Customs Service remains steadfast in securing national frontiers and ensuring national security. Under Adeniyi's leadership, the Service will not tolerate any actions that threaten the nation’s security and prosperity.
