
The Tin-Can Island Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced the interception of a significant cache of arms, ammunition, and drugs imported into the country.
The seized items, including military camouflage, illicit drugs such as Colorado, heroin, cocaine, among others, were discovered by vigilant officers of the command. The recovered arms consist of 11 rifles, comprising automatic single-barrel rifles, pump-action guns, and six pistols, among other firearms.
Addressing journalists at a press conference, the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Dera Nnadi, credited the seizures to the diligence of the command’s officers.
He disclosed that individuals arrested in connection with the seizures are currently in custody and will face prosecution. Nnadi outlined the seized items, highlighting the various types of rifles and pistols intercepted from different containers imported into the country at different times.
He also mentioned the collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), which led to the interception of psychotropic substances, including cannabis Sativa and heroin. The identity of the container containing heroin remains undisclosed due to ongoing investigations.
Nnadi emphasized that the vigorous efforts to make these seizures align with the federal government’s commitment to ensuring national security and safety. He pointed out that the importers intended to use these seized items for nefarious activities, including supporting insurgents, kidnapping, and other criminal activities detrimental to the nation’s well-being and security.
Furthermore, the Customs CAC highlighted the command’s remarkable performance in revenue generation. He revealed that the Tin-Can Customs Command surpassed its revenue target for January 2024 by 107 percent, generating N240.3 billion within the first two months and 14 days of the year. This achievement reflects a significant revenue surplus, exceeding both January and February targets by 107 percent and 141 percent, respectively.
The command’s consistent efforts to intercept illegal imports and its outstanding revenue generation demonstrate its commitment to safeguarding national security and economic stability.