204 Illegal Rifles Seized in Lagos as Customs Strengthens Arms Control

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has handed over 204 seized pump-action rifles to the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW) following a major interception at the Tincan Island Port in Lagos.

The firearms, reportedly imported from Turkey, were intercepted by security operatives acting on credible intelligence. The operation was aimed at preventing the weapons from entering illegal circulation and potentially contributing to insecurity.

The seizure highlights the importance of intelligence-led operations and collaboration among security and border-control agencies in tackling the illicit movement of firearms into Nigeria.

The handover to the NCCSALW is expected to facilitate the proper documentation, control and eventual disposal of the seized weapons in line with established procedures.

The development also underscores ongoing efforts by Nigerian authorities to strengthen border security and disrupt networks involved in the illegal importation and distribution of small arms and light weapons.