By Godwin Oritse & Harriet Eramrerai
LAGOS— THE Tin-Can Island Customs Command of the Nigeria Customs Command, NCS, yesterday intercepted another set of arms and ammunition concealed in four vehicles in a 40″ container.

This is the third time in less than two months that security operatives would be intercepting and confiscating arms and ammunition in the seaports.

Speaking to newsmen on the development, Customs Area Comptroller, Mr Austen Warikoru, said the vessel, MV Safmarine Texas, that brought in the container from the United States had since gone back, adding that the importer and the clearing agents had been arrested.

He also stated that the items had actually gone through examination and were about to exit the gate when a second examination exercise was carried out following a tip off.
Also found in the container with number UESU 456777-3 includes 1,431 round of live ammunition, two hand guns, a large military bag, and two military camouflage wears.

He noted that the way the four vehicles were packed in the container, it was really difficult to carry out a proper examination externally.

His words: ”To be sure of the content of the container, we had to carry out a second and proper examination.”

He also said the seized items, the suspected importer, Mr Ume Uzoize and the clearing agent, Mr Ifeanyi Edom, have handed over to the Police for further investigation.

Meanwhile, operatives from the Nigerian Navy Intelligence have also intercepted eight illegally imported military trucks just as two person have also been arrested in connection with the import.

In a statement the Federal Officer Commanding Rear Admiral Emmanuel Ogbor said that some of the seized items include a Chevrolet double cabin vehicle covered with a camouflage tarpauline spread neatly into a container.

“Inside the vehicle were some pistols, hundreds of live ammunition, bullet-proof jackets and military boots and sundry prohibited items.

“In addition, heavy duty military trucks used for the movement of troops and logistics were also impounded by the Command”.

He stated that the onslaught against these criminals will continue until they desist from the unlawful activities.