Custom seize 661 action riffles in Lagos

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted 661 pump action rifles in Lagos.

The items, concealed in a 40-foot container number PONU 825914(3)45G1 were seized along Mile 2 Oshodi/Apapa Expressway by the officers and men of the Federal Operation Unit ( FOU) Zone “A” Ikeja .

The guns were imported from China.

Speaking with reporters in Lagos, the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC) Col. Hameed Ali  ( Rtd) said that the importer Mr Oscan Okafor, age 51, his clearing agent, Mr Mahmud Hassan age 56, and one Mr Sodique Mustapha , age 28, who accompanied the Mack Truck with registration number BDG 256 XG used in conveying the guns on Sunday, 22 January, have been arrested.

He also told reporters that all Customs officers that were involved in the release of the dangerous cargo from the port have been arrested and detained by the service to serve as deterrent to others.

The inscription on each of the gun is Tornado and designed in Italy for JOJEFF MAGNUM. Ali said that the  items  were under absolute prohibition which renders its importation illegal.

“Such deadly contravention of the law is even more unacceptable considering the fragile situation in some parts of the country.

“Investigation has 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 the container are with the Comptroller FOU Zone ‘A”, Ikeja,” Ali said.

Other items inside the container included iron doors, water equipment, furniture, Solo toilet roles, spageties, Ideal vegetable oil, used chairs, foams and other house utensils.

The seizure, the CGC said, underscores the determination of the service to enforce all laws relating to importation and exportation of goods into and out of the country, thereby contributing to the security, economy and wellbeing of our nation.

The feat achieved by the FOU officers in detecting the seized guns, Ali said, was commendable because it represents the new order in the service where most officers and men are on daily basis ensuring that illegalities are not allowed unchecked.