Nigeria Customs Seize Six Rifles Hidden in Garri Sacks Near Benin Border
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted six pump-action rifles and 1,125 live cartridges concealed inside sacks of garri along a bush path between Oyo State and the Republic of Benin border.
Mohammed Shuaibu, coordinator of the Joint Border Patrol Team (Sector 2), disclosed that the seizure was made during a routine patrol along the Okerete-Ododo bush path in Oyo State.
Details of the Seizure
According to Shuaibu, the discovery occurred on December 3, 2024, when operatives spotted a man fleeing from a stationary Toyota Camry Saloon car in the bush path.
“The fleeing man’s action raised suspicion, prompting a search of the abandoned vehicle. This revealed six pump-action rifles and 1,125 live cartridges concealed in sacks of cassava flakes,” Shuaibu explained.
The rifles bore the following serial numbers:
- 602-H22YT641
- 602-H22YT397
- 602-H22YT623
- 22-MT-0238
- P537916
- T051084
Ongoing Border Security Efforts
Shuaibu highlighted that since August 2029, the Joint Border Patrol Team has seized goods valued at ₦36.7 billion and intercepted 1,507 illegal immigrants as part of its efforts to strengthen border security and combat smuggling activities.
He assured the public that the team remains committed to safeguarding Nigeria’s borders and will continue intensifying patrols to prevent the illegal importation of arms and other contraband.
Call for Cooperation
The Customs Service called on community members along border areas to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities, emphasizing the collective responsibility in securing Nigeria’s borders.
