The Seme Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced the interception of a significant cache of suspected explosive materials, including corrosive mercury, ingeniously concealed in five cartons of the Holy Qur’an.
Speaking at a press briefing held at the Command’s headquarters on Wednesday, Customs Area Controller Ben Oramalugo confirmed the seizure and disclosed the arrest of a suspect linked to the illegal consignment.
The contraband was discovered during a routine patrol along the Badagry–Lagos Expressway, where customs operatives flagged down a red Toyota Avensis with registration number GGE 66 JN. The vehicle was found to be transporting the hazardous materials under the guise of religious literature.
“This interception occurred on the night of March 28, 2025, around 8:00 p.m., and represents a major breakthrough in our ongoing operations against the trafficking of dangerous and prohibited items,” Oramalugo stated.
He emphasized the grave security risks posed by such materials, noting that investigations into their origin, destination, and potential use are currently ongoing.
In addition to the explosive cache, Oramalugo also revealed that operatives of the Command seized various foreign currencies in April, totaling the naira equivalent of ₦8.9 million.
The suspect apprehended in connection with the smuggling attempt is currently in custody and undergoing interrogation, the Controller added.
The Nigeria Customs Service reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding national security and preventing the movement of illegal and hazardous items through the country’s borders.
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