Customs Raises Alarm After Seizing Military Gear, Cannabis Worth N259m In Ogun

Operatives of the Nigeria Customs Service have intercepted a large consignment of military camouflage uniforms and high-grade cannabis products valued at over N259.68 million along the Idiroko border corridor in Ogun State.

The contraband was discovered inside a luxury bus without registration number during an anti-smuggling operation carried out by officers of the Idiroko Area Command.

Speaking at the command headquarters on Monday, the Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller Oladapo Afeni, described the seizure as a major breakthrough in ongoing efforts to combat smuggling and security-related crimes along Nigeria’s border routes. Afeni disclosed that the discovery of military uniforms was particularly disturbing given the country’s current security challenges.

According to him, unauthorised possession of military gear is often associated with impersonation by criminals who disguise themselves as security personnel in order to evade suspicion and facilitate illegal activities. “The seizure of military uniforms is particularly worrisome because of the prevailing security situation in the country,” Afeni said. “Unauthorised possession of such uniforms is often linked to impersonation, where criminals disguise themselves as security personnel to commit crimes or facilitate the movement of contraband undetected.”

A physical examination of the items reportedly uncovered 197 camouflage trousers and shorts concealed in unmarked cartons, five camouflage two-piece outfits, 32 camouflage tops and 32 mixed camouflage undergarments. Customs officers also recovered 154 strains of synthetic cannabis indica popularly known as “Canadian Loud” alongside seven parcels of Colorado and other suspected illicit substances.

Afeni said the operation demonstrates the commitment of the Nigeria Customs Service to strengthening border security and preventing criminal elements from exploiting Nigeria’s porous frontiers. He warned smugglers and trafficking syndicates that the service would continue to intensify surveillance and enforcement operations across border communities.

The Customs Area Controller also called on members of the public to support security agencies with credible intelligence capable of disrupting illegal trafficking activities.

The seizure comes amid heightened concerns over the use of military uniforms by kidnappers, armed robbers and insurgent groups operating in different parts of Nigeria.