Customs Seize ₦1.5bn Worth of Arms, Military Gear From Turkey

 

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted a cache of assorted arms, drones, and military equipment valued at ₦1.5 billion.

According to Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, the seizure took place at the Murtala Muhammed Area Command in Lagos State, following intelligence from local and international sources.

“During the examination, an item was discovered and suspected to be part of a rifle from a console consignment with airway bill number 235-58737755, emanating from Turkey,” Adeniyi disclosed during a press briefing on Wednesday.

The investigation led to the discovery of 55 unassembled Jojef magnum (Tomahawk) semi-automatic shotguns concealed within four packages disguised as shower faucets. The Duty Paid Value of these illicit arms alone was estimated at ₦270,888,109.29.

Additionally, the Customs authorities uncovered military and paramilitary accoutrements valued at ₦1.29 billion, contributing to the total seizure value of ₦1.5 billion. Adeniyi highlighted that recent seizures indicate a trend where Nigerian nationals based in Turkey are purchasing and exporting illegal arms to Nigeria.

“One suspect has been apprehended in connection with this illicit importation and will be handed over to the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons for thorough investigation and prosecution,” Adeniyi confirmed.

The confiscated items include 148 drones, 172 ballistic vests, 15 ballistic plates, one ballistic helmet, eight walkie-talkies, 9,172 military and paramilitary badges, 20 camouflage uniforms, 100 camouflage vests, 172 camouflage caps, and 120 binoculars.