House Asks FG to Probe Illicit Importation of Firearms

James Emejo in Abuja

The House of Representatives on Tuesday passed a resolution urging the president to direct the National Security Adviser (NSA), the Director-General of the Department State Services (DSS), the Inspector–General of Police, the Comptroller–General of Customs and other security agencies to carry out a thorough investigation of the incidences of illicit importation of firearms and prosecute those behind it.

It also mandated the Committees on National Security and Intelligence, Customs and Excise and Police Affairs to interface with the relevant security agencies to determine the state of investigations of the matters and report back within four weeks for further legislative action.
It followed a motion sponsored by Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha calling for transparency in the investigation of illegal importation of firearms into Nigeria.

The House recalled that on January 22, operatives of the Nigeria Customs Service had intercepted a trailer along Mile 2 Apapa Road, Lagos conveying a container of 661 illegally imported pump action rifles;
Following the interception of the firearms, three people were arrested and about four customs officers involved in clearing the container were also detained.

The House noted that since the arrests were made, no further information had been disclosed on whether anyone was charged to court in connection with the matter about four months after the incident.