NCS, JBPT Intercept Six Pump-Action Rifles and 1,125 Live Cartridges in Oyo State
By Ifeoma Ikem
The Joint Border Patrol Team (JBPT), Sector 2, South West Zone of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), has intercepted six pump-action rifles and 1,125 live cartridges in Oyo State.
Addressing journalists, the Coordinator of JBPT Sector 2, Mohammed Shuaibu, stated that the unit also arrested 1,507 irregular immigrants between 2019 and 2024. He noted that the briefing marked the conclusion of the ad-hoc unit’s operations since its inception. During this period, the unit seized contraband goods valued at N36.7 billion.
Shuaibu disclosed that the live cartridges were concealed inside sacks containing cassava flakes.
“On December 3, 2024, a patrol team spotted a man fleeing from a stationary Toyota Camry along the Okerete-Odo bush path in Oyo State. The suspicious behavior led to an inspection of the abandoned vehicle. Upon searching the car, six pump-action rifles with the following serial numbers were discovered: 602-H22YT-641, 602-H22YT-397, 602-H22YT-623, 22-MT-0238, P537916, and T051084. Additionally, 1,125 live cartridges were found concealed in sacks containing cassava flakes,” Shuaibu said.
Seizures and Accomplishments
Other notable seizures made by JBPT Sector 2 between August 20, 2019, and December 2024 include:
- 130,954 bags of foreign rice (50kg each): Equivalent to 218 truckloads.
- 7,200 kilograms of pangolin scales.
- 5,575,020 liters of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).
- 11,322 cartons of foreign frozen products.
- 4,124 bales of used clothing.
- 4,057 kegs of vegetable oil.
- 15 pump-action rifles.
- 280 suspected cases of human trafficking.
- 480 vehicles.
- 1,190 modes of conveyance used in smuggling activities.
Shuaibu emphasized that the sector’s efforts also bolstered the Federal Government’s revenue, with N1.140 billion remitted into the Federation Account through the auction of seized petroleum products.
Enhancing National Security
He highlighted that the unit’s activities disrupted the supply chains of illicit goods, thereby enhancing national security by addressing concerns linked to cross-border crimes. Shuaibu acknowledged that JBPT Sector 2 faced several operational challenges. However, he credited the successes to collaboration with critical stakeholders, innovative problem-solving approaches, and effective leadership.
Appreciation and Commendations
Shuaibu commended the dedication of JBPT Sector 2 officers, personnel from component security agencies, and patriotic citizens who contributed to combating cross-border crimes.
“I am privileged to lead a courageous and determined team committed to our nation’s safety and security. Your dedication, bravery, and perseverance have been instrumental to the successes recorded by the team. The tireless efforts towards securing our borders, suppressing smuggling, and intercepting illegal immigrants have not gone unnoticed,” he said.
He expressed gratitude to God, noting that no lives were lost during “Operation Swift Response.”
