The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Tin Can Island Port Command, has defended its enforcement action against the vessel MT NY Maria, caught discharging Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) without proper clearance at the MRS Terminal (Dantata Jetty), Tin Can Island Port.
In a statement issued Thursday, May 28, 2026, the Command said the operation by its officers was lawful and backed by the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.
The statement, signed by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent of Customs Oscar Ivara, said officers of the Boarding and Rummaging Unit boarded the vessel Saturday, May 23, 2026, shortly after its arrival from the Dangote Refinery for routine documentation and compliance checks.
During the inspection, officials discovered the vessel lacked complete documentation, particularly the mandatory Last Port Clearance from its port of departure.
“In line with established procedures, officers granted the vessel’s agent a two-day period to provide the outstanding document while the vessel was lawfully sealed and placed under Customs control pending compliance,” the statement said.
However, the Command said intelligence received Wednesday, May 27, 2026, indicated the vessel had begun discharge operations without Customs clearance while still under official seal.
Customs officers who moved to the terminal reportedly faced resistance from facility security personnel before gaining access.
The Service said the ship master was instructed to immediately halt the unauthorized discharge and report to the Enforcement Unit for a formal statement. The vessel was subsequently resealed following standard procedures.
The Command clarified that the ship master was not arrested, contrary to circulating reports, but was only invited for questioning as part of ongoing investigations.
Explaining the legal basis, the Service cited provisions of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.
“The discharge of PMS by MT NY Maria without requisite clearance and while under Customs seal constituted a direct violation of Sections 46 to 58 of the Act relating to reporting obligations, goods declaration, presentation of goods, unloading procedures, and release of goods under Customs control,” the statement said.
It further stressed that Sections 30 to 35 of the Act empower Customs officers to board, inspect, detain, and enforce compliance within Customs-controlled zones.
Reaffirming its stance, the Command said, “The Service will continue to discharge its statutory responsibilities professionally, transparently, and without fear or favour in safeguarding Nigeria’s economic and national security interests.”
