Customs Announces Arms Smuggling Bust in Oyo
The Joint Border Patrol Team (JBPT) Sector II, Southwest Zone, Lagos, has intercepted an attempt by smugglers to bring six pump-action rifles and 1,125 live cartridges into the country.
During a press briefing at the Customs Training College, Ikeja, on Friday, 6 December 2024, the Coordinator, Deputy Comptroller Mohammed Shuaibu, revealed that the firearms and ammunition were concealed in sacks of cassava flakes.
Detailing the operation, Shuaibu stated, “On 3 December 2024, a patrol team observed a man fleeing from a parked Toyota Camry saloon car along the Okerete-Odo bush path in Oyo State. His suspicious behaviour led the team to intercept the abandoned vehicle.
“A search of the car uncovered six pump-action rifles with the following serial numbers: 602-H22YT-641; 602-H22YT-397; 602-H22YT-623; 22-MT-0238; P537916; and T051084. Additionally, 1,125 live cartridges were carefully concealed within sacks containing cassava flakes.”
Shuaibu highlighted the sustained achievements of JBPT Sector II since its establishment on 20 August 2019. “The team’s dedication and sacrifices in combating cross-border crimes have yielded significant results,” he said.
According to him, the team has recorded seizures worth a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of over N36.7 billion, intercepted 1,507 irregular immigrants, and prevented several cross-border crimes.
Other notable achievements include: 7,200kg of pangolin scales, 5,575,020 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS),15 pump-action rifles, 280 suspected human trafficking cases, 480 motor vehicles, and 1,190 means of conveyance.
On revenue generation, Shuaibu explained that the sector had bolstered federal earnings through auction sales. “A total of N1.14 billion has been paid into the federation account from the sale of seized petroleum products,” he noted.
He praised the officers and men of JBPT Sector II, including members of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), and other component security agencies. He also acknowledged the contributions of patriotic citizens and stakeholders for their role in the fight against cross-border crimes.
Shuaibu expressed gratitude for the unwavering support of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, and the Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi.
In recognition of their efforts, some officers of the JBPT Sector II, Southwest Zone, Lagos, from both the NCS and NIS, were awarded for their exceptional performance and contributions to the team’s success.
