The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Tin Can Island Port command, says it has launched an investigation into a vessel identified as MT NY Maria for allegedly discharging premium motor spirit (PMS) without the required customs clearance at the MRS terminal, also known as Dantata Jetty, in Tin Can Island port.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Oscar Ivara, spokesperson of the command, said the vessel arrived from Dangote refinery and was boarded by officers from the boarding and rummaging unit on May 23 for routine compliance and documentation checks.
According to the NCS, officers discovered that the vessel lacked complete documentation, including the mandatory last port clearance from its port of origin.
The service said the vessel’s agent was given two days to provide the outstanding document, while the vessel was sealed and placed under customs control pending compliance.
“Contrary to the directive issued by the Service, officers subsequently received intelligence on Wednesday, 27 May 2026, that the vessel had commenced discharge operations without obtaining the requisite Customs clearance and while still under official Customs seal,” the statement reads.
“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.
“They directed the ship master to immediately discontinue the unauthorised discharge activity and report to the Enforcement Unit to provide official statements regarding the incident.
“The vessel was thereafter resealed in accordance with extant procedures. The Service wishes to state categorically that the ship master was not arrested at any point but was only invited to make statements as part of ongoing investigations.”
The NCS stated that its actions were backed by provisions of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, particularly those concerning customs control, inspections, cargo verification, and enforcement within customs zones.
The agency explained that international seaports are recognised as customs control zones under section 31(2)(b) of the Act, requiring imported goods to be unloaded and cleared strictly under customs supervision.
According to the statement, the alleged discharge of PMS without clearance and while the vessel remained under customs seal violated regulations relating to reporting obligations, cargo declaration, unloading procedures, and customs-controlled release of goods.
The command added that investigations into the incident, including the alleged obstruction faced by customs officers during enforcement, are ongoing.
“Investigations into the incident, including acts of obstruction encountered by officers in the course of lawful enforcement, are currently ongoing in line with extant legal and administrative procedures,” the NCS said.
“The Service reiterates that no vessel, terminal operator, shipping company, or individual is above the law, and that 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 service reaffirmed its commitment to facilitating legitimate trade while enforcing compliance with national fiscal, trade, and security regulations.