Nigeria Customs Intercepts N270m Weapons At Lagos Airport..
By Outlook Media.
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has made a significant breakthrough in its efforts to curb illicit arms importation and enhance national security. In a press briefing held at the Murtala Muhammed Area Command in Ikeja, Lagos, the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, announced the interception of a large cache of unassembled firearms and military equipment.
On June 19, 2024, acting on credible intelligence from both local and international partners, NCS personnel conducted thorough examinations of consignments at all exit points. This operation led to the discovery of 55 unassembled JOJEF MAGNUM (TOMAHAWK) semi-automatic shotguns, concealed within shower faucet packages. The shipment, originating from Turkey with airway bill number 235-58737755, has a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N270,888,109.29.
A suspect is currently in custody and is cooperating with ongoing investigations to identify the perpetrators behind this illicit arms importation. Preliminary analysis indicates that some Nigerians based in Turkey are involved in purchasing, packaging, and exporting these arms to Nigeria. The NCS has pledged to remain vigilant and intercept any further attempts to import illegal weapons.
Additionally, the NCS displayed various military and paramilitary equipment improperly imported without end-user certificates. These items, with a DPV of N1,298,019,276.91, include 148 drones, 172 ballistic vests, and other military-grade gear. The total DPV of all seized items is N1,568,907,386.48.
Under the provisions of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, the following actions have been taken:
– The 55 unassembled shotguns and concealing items are seized.
– The 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 transferred to the centre for further processing.
– All controlled items imported without requisite end-user certificates are seized.
– Officers involved in the successful interception will be rewarded as per the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023.
This seizure serves as a stern warning to those considering similar illegal activities. The NCS is steadfast in its mission to secure Nigeria’s borders and ensure national security. Under the leadership of Comptroller General Adeniyi, the NCS remains committed to protecting the nation’s security and economic prosperity.
For further inquiries, contact the Nigeria Customs Service, Murtala Muhammed Area Command, Lagos.