By Modupe Gbadeyanka
On Monday, Comptroller General of Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Mr Hameed Ibrahim Ali, paraded some about 661 action riffles intercepted by his men on Sunday, January 22, 2017.
Briefing newsmen in Lagos, Mr Ali explained that 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.
He said the truck was immediately taken to the premises of FOU Zone 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 merchandize goods.
The customs boss noted that these rifles are under absolute prohibition, declaring the importation illegal.
According to him, “Such deadly contravention of the law is even more unacceptable considering the fragile security situation in some parts of the country.”
He informed journalists that three suspects have already been arrested in connection with the illegal importation.
Mr Ali gave the names of the suspects as Mr Oscan Okafor (Importer) age 51, Mr Mahmud Hassan (Clearing Agent) age 56 and Mr Sadique Mustapha (accompanying the consignment to its destination) age 28.
“Investigation has already commenced and I have directed that the drag net should be wide enough to fish out all persons involved in the importation and clearing of the consignment.
“Already, the officers involved in the clearance of this container are with the Comptroller FOU Zone ‘A’ Ikeja.
“This seizure underscores the determination 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 wellbeing of the Country.
“This feat is no doubt commendable and represents the new normal in the service where most Officers and Men are on a daily basis ensuring that illegalities are not allowed unchecked.
“I commend the Comptroller, all officers and men involved in this great seizure.
“Let me seize this opportunity to call on all well-meaning Nigerians to support the service with information that could assist the service perform their statutory responsibilities in the interest of our father land,” he said.
