Customs seal vessel over illegal petrol discharge operations

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has confirmed sealing the vessel MT NY Maria at the MRS Terminal, Dantata Jetty, Tincan Island Port, Lagos. According to the NCS, the vessel was found discharging Premium Motor Spirit (petrol) without obtaining the necessary Customs clearance. This action was taken in accordance with the NCS Act, 2023.

“

On Saturday, 23 May 2026, officers of the Boarding and Rummaging Unit boarded the vessel upon its arrival from the Dangote Refinery to conduct routine documentation and compliance procedures in line with the provisions of the NCS Act, 2023.

Oscar Ivara, Public Relations Officer of the Tincan Island Command, clarified that officers boarded the vessel upon its arrival from the Dangote Refinery for routine documentation. During this process, it was discovered that the vessel lacked complete documentation, specifically the mandatory last port clearance from its origin. The NCS granted the vessel's agent a two-day period to provide the outstanding document, during which the vessel was lawfully sealed and placed under Customs control.

“

During the exercise, it was discovered that the vessel lacked complete documentation, particularly the mandatory last port clearance required from the port of origin. 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.

However, on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, the NCS received intelligence that the vessel had commenced discharge operations despite being under official Customs seal and without clearance. Officers were dispatched to the terminal and, despite encountering resistance from security personnel, gained lawful access. They ordered the ship master to cease the unauthorized discharge and report for an official statement. The vessel was subsequently resealed, and the ship master was invited for questioning as part of the ongoing investigation, though not arrested.

“

contrary to the directive issued by the NCS, 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.”