The Director, Strategic Communications and Information, National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW), Group Captain Pius Okwuego in a statement said the arrest of the suspects was made possible through the deployment of the NCCSALWS intelligence architecture, in collaboration with other security agencies.
The statement further said the case is a follow-up from the interception of a 40-foot container at the Onne Port, Rivers State, on 20 June 2024, during an operation led by the Nigerian Customs Service.
“The container, with registration number MAEU- 9165396, originating from Turkey, was discovered to be concealing 844 assorted firearms and 112,500 rounds of live cartridges within items such as plumbing materials and steel doors.
“The primary suspect, Ali Samson Ofoma, along with nine other accomplices, including Okechukwu Gabriel Charles, Kingsley Mbibi and Akinkuade Mayowa Segun, was subsequently arrested in Abuja.
“Investigations revealed that the case involves a well-organized smuggling ring, with alleged roles ranging from financing illegal importation of arms, to facilitating their clearing and logistics process.
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“Falsified documents wеrе reportedly used to conceal the true contents of the container, which was falsely declared as spare parts and household items.
“After their arrest, the suspects were charged under several provisions of Nigerian law, including charges of conspiracy to import prohibited firearms, violating the Firearms Act, and engaging in terror-related offenses under the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act of 2022.
“The charges against the suspects further highlight their alleged involvement in attempts to destabilize national security through illegal arms trade.
“The NCCSALW is operating under the authority of the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and is empowered by the newly assented Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons Art 2024, taking the responsibility for the prosecution of the case.
“The NCCSALW said though the arraignment was initially scheduled for Monday, 9 September 2024, it was adjourned to Thursday, 12 September 2024, due to the absence of the layers of 2 of the defendants.
“The suspects were arraigned at the Federal High Court in Abuja, and the case has been adjourned till 20th September 2024 for hearing. Meanwhile, investigations are still ongoing.
“The National Centre under the guidance of the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) said it is actively reinforcing its mandate to prevent the proliferation of illegal arms across Nigeria and remains committed to the mandate of ensuring that Nigeria is safe from the dangers posed by illegal Small Arms and Light Weapons.
