The Oyo/Osun Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has arrested three suspects over the attempted smuggling of three pump-action rifles, while another individual is in custody for allegedly impersonating officials of the Service and running a fake recruitment scheme.
The Acting Controller of the Command, Deputy Comptroller Wale Adewole, disclosed the development during a press briefing held at the Command’s headquarters in Ibadan on Thursday. He stated that investigations into the firearms case are ongoing, with the Command collaborating with its intelligence, police and legal units to identify and apprehend other individuals connected to the attempted smuggling operation.
According to him, the three suspects linked to the seizure of the pump-action rifles are currently being interrogated as authorities intensify efforts to uncover the source and intended destination of the weapons.
Adewole also revealed that another suspect was arrested following intelligence provided by the Amotekun Corps over allegations of impersonation and recruitment fraud. The suspect allegedly deceived unsuspecting members of the public by claiming to have the ability to secure employment into the Nigeria Customs Service in exchange for large sums of money.
He warned Nigerians to remain vigilant and avoid falling victim to fraudsters posing as government officials or recruitment agents. He stressed that recruitment into the Nigeria Customs Service follows a transparent and merit-based process conducted exclusively through official channels, adding that no individual has the authority to sell employment opportunities within the agency.
The Command also announced major successes recorded in its anti-smuggling operations between March and May 2026, revealing that contraband with a cumulative Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N3.22 billion was intercepted during the period.
Among the seized items were foreign parboiled rice, used clothing, shoes, used tyres, pharmaceuticals, cannabis sativa, tramadol, Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), sugar, pasta products, used compressors and other prohibited goods. Several vehicles allegedly used in smuggling operations, including trucks, buses and saloon cars, were also impounded.
Adewole noted that the seizures represent a significant blow to smuggling syndicates operating within the Command’s area of responsibility, adding that the operations have helped protect the nation’s economy, curb the circulation of illicit goods and strengthen national security.
In addition to its enforcement achievements, the Command recorded impressive revenue performance during the same period, generating N28.5 billion. The figure represents an eight per cent increase compared with the revenue collected during the corresponding period in 2025.
He attributed the Command’s improved performance to enhanced intelligence gathering, stronger inter-agency collaboration and the dedication of officers and men of the Service. He also reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to sustaining aggressive anti-smuggling operations, protecting legitimate trade and ensuring that offenders are brought to justice.
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