By Ajibola Adedoye
The Federal Operations Unit, Zone A (FOU A) of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has recorded major breakthroughs in its anti-smuggling operations, announcing the interception of firearms, ammunition, and industrial drones in separate operations across the Southwest region.
According to Comptroller Mohammed Shuaibu, who disclosed the development at a press briefing in Lagos, the seizures were made between August 7 and 9, 2025, following credible intelligence and swift tactical responses by Customs patrol teams.
On August 7, 2025, at about 2:13 a.m., officers intercepted a Nissan Almera vehicle along the Ilara bush paths in Ogun State. The vehicle’s occupants fled on sighting Customs operatives, abandoning their consignment. A search revealed 15 assorted rifles concealed in second-hand clothing and cartons of spaghetti, including:
Also Read
- 14 JOJEF Magnum semi-automatic firearms (Italy-made) with identifiable serial numbers.
- 1 Mossberg pump-action shotgun (USA-made).
- 4,841 rounds of live ammunition.
- 2 cartons of Danu Spaghetti and 3 bundles of used clothing.
In a related operation on August 9, 2025, another patrol team intercepted a Volkswagen Sprinter bus along the Akure–Ore axis in Ondo State. A search uncovered two industrial drones packed in a wooden box, allegedly imported without valid documents. One suspect was arrested in connection with the seizure.
The Duty Paid Value (DPV) of the seized items, including drones, used clothing, and spaghetti, was put at ₦377.1 million.
Comptroller Shuaibu described the interception of arms and drones as a major step in safeguarding national security and disrupting the activities of non-state actors.
“The importation of arms, ammunition, or drones of this nature requires valid approval, permits, and an End User Certificate from the Office of the National Security Adviser. Any deviation from this will be treated as a deliberate attempt to undermine national security,” he warned.
He commended the officers for their bravery and professionalism, stressing that such successes were achieved through intelligence-led operations and inter-agency collaboration.
The seized arms and ammunition, he added, would be handed over to the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW) for further investigation and prosecution.
Shuaibu also called on Nigerians to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to security agencies.
“At a time when our nation faces complex security challenges, collective vigilance and cooperation are critical in preventing criminal networks from succeeding,” he said.
The Comptroller reaffirmed the commitment of the NCS, under the leadership of the Comptroller-General, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, to sustaining the fight against smuggling and protecting the country’s borders.
For your Press Conferences/ Adverts/Media Consultancy/Support
Contact the Editor via WhatsApp +2348026940472/+2348032339384 or
Email: news@dailyinsight.com.ng & shinaayo110@gmail.com