A Federal High Court in Lagos has ordered the remand of three suspects arrested over the alleged unlawful importation of pump-action rifles into Nigeria. Justice Friday Ogazi directed that Kenneth Mbonu, Kenneth Agwu and Choima Onuoha be held in custody for 15 days.
The suspects were ordered to remain in the custody of the Nigerian Correctional Service until September 1, 2026, when the court will receive a report on the investigation or consider possible arraignment. The case followed an application by the Nigeria Customs Service seeking additional time to complete its investigation.
The firearms were allegedly concealed in a container marked TEMU 184536/9, which arrived in Nigeria aboard MV VELIKA on July 8. Customs officers reportedly examined the container on July 13 after receiving intelligence and allegedly discovered firearms and ammunition inside.
The discovery led to the arrest of the three suspects and further investigations into the alleged importation. Customs also alleged that information provided by the suspects helped investigators identify other people allegedly involved in forging and manipulating Customs records to facilitate the unlawful removal of the container.
The agency told the court that the investigation could not be concluded within the constitutionally prescribed 24 or 48 hours. It argued that releasing the suspects could jeopardise the investigation by allowing them to assist other suspects in evading arrest or interfering with evidence.
Customs said the three suspects had made statements under caution, which it described as voluntary and confessional. The agency sought a 15-day remand period to enable its operatives to complete the investigation and facilitate possible prosecution if a prima facie case is established.
Justice Ogazi subsequently granted the application and ordered the suspects to remain in correctional custody for 15 days. The court adjourned the matter until September 1 for a report of investigation or possible arraignment.
