The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Tincan Island Port Command, has officially handed over a cache of arms, ammunition, and military gear to the Department of State Services (DSS).

During a brief handover ceremony at the Command on Tuesday, 24 June 2025, the Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Frank Onyeka, revealed that the items were uncovered during a joint inspection conducted on Tuesday, 3 June 2025, at the Clarion Bonded Terminal, in collaboration with other government agencies.

According to him, the container imported from the US contained the following items: Ruger P345 pistol (Reg. No. 664-75425), Glock 23 Gen 4 Austria pistol (Reg. No. TO 6252), 100 rounds of live 9mm ammunition, and 34 rounds of blank 9mm ammunition. Also,four rounds of unspecified blank ammunition, five empty magazines,two handcuffs, three pistol holsters and one small iron torchlight were uncovered concealed in four used vehicles—a Toyota Corolla, a Mercedes-Benz GL 450, a Toyota Highlander, and a Mercedes-Benz E350.

The seized items, along with the consignee, declarant, and two international passports belonging to the consignee, were handed over to the DSS for safekeeping and further investigation.

“This handover underscores our collective commitment to national security and the fight against the proliferation of small arms and light weapons,” Comptroller Onyeka stated.

He issued a stern warning to arms smugglers. “To those considering such illegal acts, be warned that any attempt to bypass our stringent security measures will not only fail but also attract severe legal consequences.”

He added that Customs is working closely with relevant agencies at the ports, including the Nigeria Police, NDLEA, NAQS, and NAFDAC, to protect the country from the threats of illicit drugs and contraband.

Comptroller Onyeka commended the vigilance and professionalism of his officers and thanked sister agencies and port stakeholders for their continued support.