The Nigeria Customs Service, Murtala Muhammed Area Command, Ikeja, Lagos, today revealed 55 pieces of unassembled JOJEF Magnum (Tomahawk) semi-automatic shotguns concealed within a shipment from Turkey were seized. The unassembled rifles were hidden using shower faucets. The duty-paid value of these illicit arms is estimated at N270,888,109.29.
Analysis of recent seizures indicates that unscrupulous Nigerians based in Turkey are purchasing, packaging, and exporting these illegal arms to Nigeria. Intelligence further suggests that they are exploring new methods to perpetrate their nefarious activities.
In addition to the arms seizure, Customs displayed military and paramilitary accoutrements improperly imported without end users’ certificates. The items include drones, ballistic vests, plates, helmets, walkie-talkies, badges, camouflage uniforms, vests, caps, and binoculars. The total duty paid value of these items amounts to N1,298,019,276.9.
It stated that the items would be handed over to the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons Coordinator for diligent investigation and prosecution.
The suspect arrested in connection with this illicit arms importation will also be processed for further legal action.
The Nigeria Customs Service reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding national security and preventing the proliferation of illegal arms.
