Customs intercept luxury bus conveying military uniforms

Officials in Ogun State, Nigeria, have intercepted a luxury bus loaded with military camouflage uniforms, cannabis, and other prohibited items. The Nigeria Customs Service announced the seizure on Monday, stating the bus was intercepted around 1:30 a.m. on Sunday along the Sagamu–Ore–Benin Expressway.

The bus, which lacked a registration plate, was reportedly evading security checkpoints from Lagos State to Ogun State. Acting area controller Oladapo Afeni said intelligence-driven surveillance led to the interception. The vehicle, belonging to a transport company, was also carrying illicit drugs like Colorado and other uncustomed goods.

Preliminary investigations suggest the military uniforms were intended for unauthorized individuals, potentially for impersonation or criminal activities. Afeni detailed that 197 camouflage trousers and shorts, five two-piece camouflage uniforms, and 32 mixed camouflage innerwear and tops were found concealed in unmarked cartons. Additionally, 154 parcels of synthetic cannabis (Canadian Loud) and seven parcels of Colorado were seized.

“

A 100 per cent physical examination of the vehicle revealed 197 camouflage trousers and shorts concealed in unmarked cartons, five two-piece camouflage uniforms, and 32 mixed camouflage innerwear and tops.

The estimated street value of the confiscated drugs and military items exceeds N259 million. Two suspects were arrested in connection with the seizure and are under investigation to identify other members of the smuggling syndicate. Afeni emphasized that the combination of illicit drugs and military uniforms indicates an organized attempt to threaten national security, as unauthorized military apparel can be used for criminal disguise.

The seized cannabis and suspects were handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency for further action. The operation highlighted the use of commercial transport operators to move contraband under the guise of legitimate business.

“

Unauthorised possession of military apparel is often linked to impersonation, where criminals disguise themselves as security personnel to commit atrocities or facilitate the movement of contraband.