Customs intercepts huge arms, ammunition in Lagos
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted a large cache of firearms and ammunition illegally shipped into the country.
While the exact quantity and value of the seized weapons are yet to be disclosed, the development has raised serious concerns about security threats posed by arms smuggling.
Addressing newsmen during the official handing over ceremony of seized arms and ammunition at the Federal Operation Unit (FOU) Zone “A”, Ikeja, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, disclosed that the service has the mandate of protecting national borders through targeted anti-smuggling operations and precise intelligence-driven interventions.
The track record of the service in intercepting illegal arms and ammunition, Adeniyi said, underscores their frontline role in maintaining national security.
The seizure, the CGC said, coincided with heightened security challenges from armed bandits in the North-West and illegal arms proliferation in the South-East, revealing the linkage between transnational smuggling networks and our domestic security challenges.
Through sustained intelligence operations, Adeniyi said, “In May 2018, the Service intercepted a significant cache of arms consisting of 440 pump action rifles and accessories, ingeniously concealed within 516 bags of Plaster of Paris (POP) cement in a 1x20ft container with number PONU210024/1.
“We also intercepted two additional containers – CMAU 189817/8 and GESU 255208/1 at Tin-Can Island Port, similarly concealing arms and ammunition among sanitary wares. Today’s handover encompasses a total of 1,599 assorted arms and 2,298 live cartridges recovered from these operations.
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“We deployed forensic capabilities to conduct detailed electronic analysis of customs documentation and shipping records. Through established diplomatic channels, we partnered with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to engage the Turkish Embassy, leading to the definitive identification of the purchasing company. The investigation trail, supported by financial records obtained through court orders, enabled us to establish the identities of those behind this illegal arms shipment.”
Through strategic inter-agency cooperation, particularly with the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation, Adeniyi added, “We successfully prosecuted the case (Suit No: FHC/L/339C/2018) before the Federal High Court in Lagos. The defendants – Great James Oil and Gas Limited, Ifeuwa Moses Christ, and Emeka Umeh Festus A.K.A (Amankwa) – were convicted on eight count charges. This prosecution success reinforces the Service’s zero-tolerance stance against arms trafficking and validates the effectiveness of our judicial collaboration. Our proven investigative and prosecutorial approach is currently being applied to recent seizures at the Port of Onne, where ongoing investigations continue to yield significant progress within established legal frameworks.
“Our integrated strategy combining thorough investigation, decisive prosecution, and successful conviction has proven effective in dismantling smuggling networks. Let me be clear – the Service will spare no resource in hunting down, exposing, and prosecuting anyone who attempts to compromise our national security through arms trafficking. We stand ready to deploy our full arsenal of intelligence and enforcement capabilities to protect legitimate trade while ensuring Nigeria’s security interests remain paramount.”
While saluting the professionalism and courage of his officers who work tirelessly, often in challenging circumstances, to protect our borders, he gave kudos to other “agencies who have stood shoulder-to-shoulder with us in this fight – your support has been instrumental in these achievements. Together, we continue to build formidable barriers against those who threaten our national security,” Adeniyi said.
Adeniyi added, “symbolizes the service’s commitment to proper disposal of seized arms and highlights our resolve to rid our nation of illegal weapons. We will continue the ongoing collaborations with relevant authorities to strengthen our borders and protect our nation.”
