The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ports and Terminal Multiservices Limited (PTML) Command, has officially handed over seized ammunition to the Zonal Directorate of the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW) in the South-West Zone. The brief but symbolic ceremony took place at the Command’s headquarters in Lagos on June 3, 2025.
Comptroller Tenny Daniyan, Customs Area Controller (CAC) of the PTML Command, led the handover of 75 rounds of 12-gauge live cartridges, four rounds of 9mm live ammunition, and one empty 9mm magazine to CP Alamotun Abiodun (rtd), the Zonal Coordinator of NCCSALW. This move, according to Daniyan, aligns with the directive of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, to curb the trafficking of illegal arms and uphold national safety.
Daniyan emphasized that while the quantity of ammunition seized might appear small, the implications are enormous. “Even one bullet has the potential to cause irreparable damage. That is why the Customs Service maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards illegal arms,” he stated.
The ammunition was intercepted during a rigorous inspection of two imported vehicles, a used Toyota Tundra and a Hyundai Sonata, following enhanced intelligence and detailed examination protocols. Customs officers uncovered the concealed ammunition hidden in unusual compartments, including seat cushions and tank covers. According to the CAC, this interception was made possible through the vigilance of the Customs team and the collaboration of partner security agencies.
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The seizure was made over six months ago and underwent a full-scale investigation, which revealed that the vehicles had been purchased online by unsuspecting buyers with no knowledge of the contraband. After clearance and approval from Customs Headquarters, the PTML Command proceeded with the official handover.
Receiving the ammunition, CP Alamotun Abiodun (rtd) lauded the Customs Command for its proactive efforts. He described the operation as a clear reflection of the nation’s determination to stop the spread of illegal arms. “The quantity may be minimal, but the danger it poses is immense. This action strengthens our unified stance against arms proliferation,” he said.
Abiodun reiterated that the NCCSALW remains the legally recognized body authorized to receive all recovered illicit arms across Nigeria. He also emphasized the importance of continuous sensitization and collaboration among security agencies, noting that such partnerships are crucial to controlling the circulation of illegal weapons.
