The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Tin Can Island Port Command, has refuted information regarding its enforcement actions on the vessel MT NY Maria, which was caught discharging Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) without the required Customs clearance at the MRS Terminal (Dantata Jetty), Tin Can Island Port.
In a statement signed by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, CSC Oscar Ivara, the NCS explained that its officers acted in full compliance with the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.
According to the statement, officers from the Boarding and Rummaging Unit boarded the vessel on Saturday, May 23, 2026, upon its arrival from the Dangote Refinery for routine checks. They discovered that the vessel lacked complete documentation, particularly the mandatory Last Port Clearance from its port of origin.
The vessel was subsequently sealed and placed under Customs control, with its agent granted a two-day window to produce the outstanding document.
However, on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, the Command received intelligence that the vessel had begun discharging operations without obtaining the necessary Customs clearance and while still under official seal.
Upon arrival at the terminal, officers faced resistance from security personnel but managed to gain lawful access. They ordered the ship master to immediately stop the unauthorised discharge and report to the Enforcement Unit to provide statements. The vessel was later resealed.
The NCS emphasised that the ship master was not arrested but was only invited to make statements as part of ongoing investigations.
The Service cited relevant provisions of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, particularly Sections 30–35, 46–58, and 212, 222, 223, 225, and 226, which empower officers to board vessels, conduct inspections, enforce compliance, and take necessary actions within Customs Control Zones such as international seaports.
The Command described the discharge of PMS without clearance and under seal as a clear violation of the Act, which could attract sanctions including seizure, forfeiture, and penalties.
Investigations into the incident, including the obstruction faced by officers, are ongoing.
The NCS reiterated that no individual, vessel, or terminal operator is above the law and urged all port stakeholders to comply with documentation and clearance requirements before commencing any cargo operations.
“The Service remains committed to facilitating legitimate trade while ensuring strict adherence to national fiscal, trade, and security regulations,” the statement added.
The Command also advised the public to rely on verified official information and avoid spreading misleading narratives that could undermine regulatory enforcement.
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