The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted a container from Turkey containing 844 rifles and 112,500 rounds of live ammunition. Three suspects have been arrested in connection with the shipment and are currently in custody. The NCS is conducting a thorough investigation to ensure that all individuals involved are brought to justice.
Details of the Seizure
The container was subjected to a physical examination on June 21, 2024. During a briefing at Onne Port in Rivers State, Comptroller General of Customs Bashir Adewale Adeniyi detailed the contents of the intercepted container.
The seizure included:
- – 764 units of Tomahawk Jojef Magnum Black Pump Action Rifles
- – – 10 units of VC Verney Caron Gunmakers Jojef Magnum Silver Pump Action Rifles
- – 50 units of VC Verney Caron Gunmaker Double Barrel Rifles
- – – 20 units of VC Verney Caron Gunmaker Single Barrel Rifles
- – 112,500 pieces of Sterling High-Quality Live Ammunition
The duty-paid value of the container is estimated at N4,171,710,000.
Additional Seizures
In addition to the intercepted arms shipment, eight other containers with falsely declared contents, including used clothes and cough syrup containing codeine, were also seized. These containers have a combined duty-paid value of N13,915,710,000.
Commendations and Warnings
Comptroller General Adeniyi commended the officers involved in the operation for their diligence and commitment. He issued a stern warning to those considering similar illegal activities, stating that the Nigeria Customs Service will not tolerate actions that compromise the nation’s economy and security.
Bottom Line
The interception of this arms shipment underscores the critical role of the Nigeria Customs Service in safeguarding national security. The ongoing investigation and additional seizures highlight the agency’s commitment to combating illegal activities and ensuring that those responsible face the full consequences of their actions.
