The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Tin Can Island Port Command, has clarified circumstances surrounding enforcement actions taken against the vessel, MT NY Maria, over the alleged unauthorised discharge of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) at the MRS Terminal, Dantata Jetty, Tin Can Island Port.
In a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent of Customs Oscar Ivara, the Service dismissed what it described as “misleading narratives” circulating about the incident, insisting that its officers acted within the provisions of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.
According to the statement, officers of the Boarding and Rummaging Unit boarded the vessel on Saturday, May 23, 2026, upon its arrival from the Dangote Refinery, to conduct routine documentation and compliance checks.
During the inspection, Customs officers reportedly discovered that the vessel lacked complete documentation, particularly the mandatory Last Port Clearance from the port of origin.
The Command stated that the vessel’s agent was granted a two-day window to provide the outstanding document, while the vessel was sealed and placed under Customs control pending compliance.
However, Customs said intelligence later revealed on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, that the vessel had commenced discharge operations without obtaining Customs clearance and while still under official Customs seal.
“The officers mobilised to the terminal and encountered resistance from security personnel stationed at the facility. Despite the obstruction, officers gained lawful access to the premises and directed the ship master to immediately stop the unauthorised discharge activity,” the statement said.
The Command further clarified that the ship master was not arrested but was only invited to the Enforcement Unit to provide statements as part of ongoing investigations.
The Service explained that the actions taken were backed by Sections 30 to 35 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, which govern Customs controls, inspections, examination of goods, and enforcement within Customs Control Zones.
It noted that Section 31(2)(b) designates international seaports as Customs Control Zones, while Section 31(4) mandates that imported goods must be unloaded, inspected, assessed, and cleared strictly under Customs supervision and authorisation.
According to the statement, the discharge of PMS by MT NY Maria without the requisite clearance and while under Customs seal amounted to violations of Sections 46 to 58 of the Act relating to reporting obligations, goods declaration, unloading procedures, and release of goods under Customs control.
The Command added that the Act empowers Customs officers to board, inspect, detain, and enforce compliance on vessels operating within Customs-controlled areas.
It also disclosed that investigations into the incident, including alleged obstruction of officers during the enforcement operation, are ongoing.
“The Service reiterates that no vessel, terminal operator, shipping company, or individual is above the law, and all stakeholders operating within Nigeria’s port environment are expected to comply fully with documentation, clearance, and operational requirements before commencing discharge or cargo-handling activities,” the statement added.
The NCS reaffirmed its commitment to facilitating legitimate trade while ensuring strict compliance with fiscal, trade, and national security regulations.
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