Syndicates smuggling weapons, drugs into Nigeria for insurgents, say NCS, NDLEA

THE Tin Can Island command of the Nigeria Customs Service ( NCS) and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency ( NDLEA) have revealed that syndicates operating within West and Central Africa are involved in smuggling arms, ammunition, and hard drugs into the country.

The NCS stated that these syndicates intend to use these items for nefarious activities, such as supporting insurgents and kidnappings, along with other vices detrimental to the wellbeing and security of the nation.

This revelation follows the seizure of rifles, including pump action guns, pistols, semi- automatic arms, and pepper spray guns, as well as heroin, cannabis and military camouflage vests, concealed in various containers at the Tin Can Island Port from January to March 2024. The Customs Area Controller for the command, Dera Nnadi, handed over the seized items to the

Department of State Security Service ( DSS) and the NDLEA, respectively.

Additional items seized included flat- screen television sets, an HP printer, six cartons containing scanner machines, five empty metal jerry cans, two washing machines, three sets of bed frames, a set of living room furniture, three used microwaves, four sets of used sound systems, and 16 bags containing used clothes and personal effects, among others.

Nnadi stated that the NCS would continue making seizures to support the Federal Government’s resolve to ensure national safety.

“The command’s anti- smuggling drive remains vigorous. As the lead agency at the port, the enforcement unit, under my supervision and in collaboration with critical stakeholders, has coordinated several 100 per cent physical examinations to ensure compliance with international trade,” he said.