The Nigerian Customs Service says it has intercepted illicit arms, military hardware and drones at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos.
Briefing newsmen, the Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, noted that the arrest was coming two days after a similar seizure was carried out in Rivers State.
He also unveiled the perpetrators as Nigerians based in Turkey.
He said, “Analysis and similar recent seizures indicates that some unscrupulous Nigerians based in Turkey are purchasing, packaging and exporting these illicit arms to Nigeria. Intelligence further revealed that they are exploring new frontiers to perpetrate their nefarious activities. Still, I can assure Nigerians that all our Commands are on red alert to intercept any such illicit arms importation.
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“Also, on display this afternoon are some military and paramilitary accoutrements improperly imported without end users’ certificates with Duty Paid Value (DPV) of 1.298 billion.
“The breakdown of these items is as follows drones, 148pcs Ballistic Vest 172pcs, Ballistic Plate 15pcs, Ballistic Helmet 1pc Walkie Talkie 8pcs Military &Paramilitary Badges 9,172pcs among others.
“The total Duty Paid Value of all the displayed items is 1.5 billion. Relying on the relevant provisions of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, the following decisions have been taken on the illicit items. The 55 pieces of unassembled JOJEF MAGNUM SEMI AUTOMATIC SHOTGUN are hereby seized, with the concealing items.”
He further stated that the items would be handed over to the Coordinator of the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons, under the office of the National Security Adviser, for diligent investigation and prosecution.
“The Suspect arrested will be handed over to the centre for further processing; adding that the Service will work diligently with other Agencies of Government to apprehend all other parties to this illicit importation,” he added.
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