Bashir Adeniyi, the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, has announced the apprehension of two individuals following the discovery of illicit shipments at TinCan Island Port in Lagos. During a press event on Thursday, Adeniyi detailed how enforcement teams intercepted a container on July 8 filled with hidden components for pump-action rifles. Officials successfully assembled 140 rifles from the seized parts, with efforts to piece together the remaining items still underway.
Authorities took a primary suspect into custody on July 31 at a bonded terminal while the individual was attempting to clear the shipment. Investigators utilized telecommunications and financial records to confirm the suspect’s involvement. While two people are currently assisting with the investigation, security agencies are actively searching for another key participant who remains at large.
In a separate operation, customs officers found two 40-foot containers filled with cannabis-infused snacks, including cookies and gummies, hidden among everyday goods like generators and textiles. These items, imported from the United States and marketed as vegan snacks, have a street value of approximately N373.8 million. Adeniyi expressed concern that the attractive packaging—featuring flavors like vanilla and peach—could easily trick children and students into consuming dangerous amounts of cannabis.
Augustine Adewunmi, the Commander of Narcotics for the NDLEA TinCan Strategic Command, received the confiscated goods and emphasized that these products pose a serious danger to public health. He urged the public to stay alert, noting that the items are specifically designed to target younger demographics. Adeniyi concluded by praising the collaborative efforts between the Customs Service and the NDLEA, reaffirming his agency’s dedication to border security.
