The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Tin Can Island Port Command, has raised concerns over alleged unauthorised discharge operations involving the vessel, MT NY Maria, at the MRS Terminal (Dantata Jetty), Tin Can Island Port.
According to the Command, the vessel was discovered discharging Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) without obtaining the required Customs clearance and while still under official Customs seal, an action the Service described as a violation of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.
In a statement signed by the Public Relations Officer of the Command, Chief Superintendent of Customs, Oscar Ivara, the Service explained that officers of the Boarding and Rummaging Unit had boarded the vessel on May 23, 2026, after its arrival from the Dangote Refinery for routine documentation and compliance checks.
During the inspection, Customs reportedly discovered that the vessel did not possess complete documentation, particularly the mandatory Last Port Clearance from the port of origin. The vessel’s agent was subsequently granted two days to provide the outstanding document, while the vessel was sealed and placed under Customs control pending compliance.
However, the Service disclosed that intelligence later revealed that discharge operations had commenced at the MRS Terminal on May 27 without Customs authorisation and despite the vessel remaining under official seal.
Customs further alleged that officers encountered resistance from security personnel stationed at the terminal when they moved to enforce compliance.
“Upon mobilisation to the terminal, officers encountered resistance from security personnel stationed at the facility. Notwithstanding the obstruction, officers gained lawful access to the premises,” the statement said.
The Service stated that officers immediately directed the ship master to halt the discharge operations and report to the Enforcement Unit to make statements regarding the incident. The vessel was thereafter resealed in accordance with extant procedures.
Customs clarified that the ship master was not arrested, contrary to reports circulating in some quarters, but was only invited for questioning as investigations continue.
The Command maintained that its actions were backed by provisions of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, particularly sections relating to Customs control, inspection, documentation verification, and enforcement within Customs Control Zones.
According to the Service, international seaports fall under designated Customs Control Zones, making it mandatory for imported cargoes to be unloaded, inspected, assessed, and cleared strictly under Customs supervision and authorisation.
The Command added that the discharge of PMS by MT NY Maria without requisite clearance and while under Customs seal constituted violations of provisions governing goods declaration, unloading procedures, and release of goods under Customs control.
Customs also stressed that the law empowers officers to board, inspect, detain, and enforce compliance measures on vessels and cargoes operating within Customs-controlled areas.
The Service noted that investigations into the incident, including alleged obstruction encountered by officers during the enforcement exercise at the terminal, are ongoing.
Reiterating its commitment to enforcing compliance within the port environment, the NCS warned that no vessel, terminal operator, shipping company, or individual is above the law and urged stakeholders to comply fully with all documentation and operational requirements before commencing cargo discharge activities.
The Command also advised the public to rely on verified information from official channels and avoid spreading misleading narratives capable of undermining lawful enforcement actions and public confidence in regulatory institutions.
