Customs Intercepts Truck Load Of Pump-Action Rifles In Lagos
The Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted a Mack truck load of 49 boxes of pump – action rifles allegedly imported from China.
At a press briefing in Lagos yesterday by the Comptroller-General of the service, Col. Hameed Ali (rtd), the 40ft container was intercepted along Apapa Mile 2 Road by officers of the Federal Operations Unit (A), Ikeja on the 22nd of January 2017.
According to the CGC, the contraband which was imported from China but routed through Turkey enroute Nigeria contained 49 boxes with a total number of 661 pieces of pump action Rifles.
He said, “On Sunday 22nd January 2017, the roving team of the NCS Federal Operations Unit while on information patrol intercepted a Mack truck with registration number BDG 265 XG conveying a 1x40ft container with number: PONU/825914/3 along Mile 2 Apapa road.”
“The truck was immediately taken to the premises of FOU A, Ikeja where physical examination revealed 49 boxes containing a total number of 661 pieces of pump action Rifles concealed with steel doors and other merchandise goods.”
The CGC however stated than three persons have been arrested in connection to the contraband which was disguised as steel doors.
“These Rifles are under absolute prohibition therefore its importation is illegal. Such deadly contravention of the law is even more unacceptable considering the fragile security situation in some parts of the country.
“Already, three suspects have been arrested in connection with this illegal importation. They are 51 year old Mr Oscar Okafor who is the Importer; 56 year old Mahmud Hassan, clearing agent and a 28 year old Sadique Mustapha who was found accompanying the consignment to its destination.”
The CGC said the huge seizure represented the new aura in the service
“This seizure underscores the destination of the service to enforce all laws relating to importation and exportation of goods into and out of Nigeria thereby contributing to the economy, security and well being of the country.
“This feat is also no doubt commendable and represents the new normal in the service where most officers and men are on a daily basis ensuring that is legalities are not allowed unchecked. I commend the Comptroller, all officers and men involved in this great seizure,” he stated.
