The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted 140 pump-action rifles and cannabis-infused food products at the TinCan Island Port in Lagos.
Comptroller-general of customs, Bashir Adeniyi, who made this known at a press briefing, said the seizures were made during recent enforcement operations by the TinCan Island Port command.
According to him, Customs operatives intercepted a container on July 8 containing concealed knock-down components of pump-action rifles and 140 rifles had been assembled from the recovered parts, with officers still assembling the remaining components.
Adeniyi also said one principal suspect was arrested on July 31 at a bonded terminal while attempting to process the release of the container, explaining that financial and telecommunications records linked the suspect to the shipment.
He added that two suspects are currently in custody assisting with investigations, while another principal suspect remains at large and is being tracked by security agencies.
Adeniyi also noted that customs officers intercepted two 40-foot containers laden with cannabis-infused products concealed among imported items, including vehicles, generators, batteries and fabrics.
He said the seizure included 8,720 pieces of Delta-8 cannabis pre-roll cookies weighing 17.44 kilogrammes and valued at N308.7 million.
The customs boss added that officers recovered 740 packs of cannabis-infused gummies weighing 515.2 kilogrammes and valued at N40.7 million, as well as 873 cartons containing 442 packs of cannabis-infused cookies weighing 309.4 kilogrammes and valued at N24.3 million.
He said the combined street value of the seized cannabis-infused products is N373.8 million.
Adeniyi noted that the products were packaged to resemble ordinary snacks, with flavours such as citrus, vanilla, pine and peach pie, making them attractive to children, students and other young people.
He said the deceptive packaging could cause unsuspecting consumers to unknowingly ingest the products.
The CGC commended Joseph Anani, area controller of the TinCan Island Port command, and officers of the enforcement unit for their vigilance and professionalism.
He reiterated the service’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s borders and ensuring the prosecution of those involved in trafficking illicit arms and dangerous drugs.
Adeniyi also praised the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for its collaboration with the customs service and urged Nigerians to provide credible intelligence to support anti-smuggling efforts.
