The National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons has confirmed that a significant cache of arms and ammunition intercepted by the Nigerian Customs Service will undergo destruction after completing necessary documentation.
According to reports, the Customs intercepted a 40-foot container in Port Harcourt containing 844 rifles and 112,500 live ammunition.
These items were skillfully concealed within various objects such as doors, furniture, plumbing fittings, and leather bags.
Originating from Turkey, the container had a duty-paid value estimated at N4 billion.
In a statement released on Monday, Director of Strategic Communications and Information at NCCSALW, Group Captain Pius Okwuego, announced the official handover of the seized weapons by the Nigerian Customs Service in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
This transfer marks a significant milestone in collaborative efforts among national security agencies aimed at securing Nigeria’s borders and ensuring public safety.
Deputy Inspector-General of Police Johnson Kokumo (retd.), who serves as the National Coordinator of the Centre, emphasized that the weapons will be destroyed to eliminate any potential threat to society.
He commended the Nigerian Customs Service for their unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation against the dangers posed by illicit arms.
“This seizure underscores the critical role of the Nigerian Customs Service in protecting our nation from the threats posed by illegal arms,” Kokumo affirmed. “The NCCSALW will meticulously document and ensure the destruction of these weapons to prevent them from ever endangering our society.”
