Nigeria Customs seizure nets 15 rifles, 4,841 ammunition rounds, drones, and contraband in Southwest, highlighting robust efforts to combat smuggling and safeguard national security

Nigeria Customs seizure efforts took a significant leap in August, as the Federal Operations Unit, Zone A, Ikeja, intercepted 15 assorted rifles, 4,841 rounds of ammunition, and other contraband across the Southwestern region.

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The operation is part of an ongoing offensive targeting smuggling networks in the area.

Mohammed Shuaibu, Customs Area Controller of the unit, disclosed to journalists that the interception followed credible intelligence.

A Nissan Almera was stopped near Ilara bush paths in Ogun State, with the driver and a passenger fleeing upon sighting officers.

A thorough search revealed that the contraband was hidden inside second-hand clothing and cartons of spaghetti.

Detailed examination confirmed 14 JOJEF Magnum semi-automatic rifles and one Mossberg pump action shotgun, alongside thousands of ammunition rounds.

In a separate incident, a patrol team intercepted a Volkswagen Sprinter bus on the Akure-Ore axis carrying industrial drones without proper documentation. One suspect has been arrested.

The combined value of the seized items, including the drones and contraband, amounts to approximately N377 million.

Shuaibu emphasized that the seizure underscores the Nigeria Customs Service’s commitment, under Comptroller-General Adewale Adeniyi, to disrupting illegal activities and enhancing national security.

He reiterated the importance of regulatory compliance, noting that arms and drones require valid permits and End User Certificates.

“These seizures are the result of careful planning, intelligence, and execution,” Shuaibu said, praising his officers for their bravery and professionalism.

He called on citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to support security efforts.

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The confiscated weapons and ammunition will be handed over to the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons for further investigation and prosecution.