The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Tin Can Island Port Command, has defended its enforcement action on the MT NY Maria, insisting the vessel attempted to discharge Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) without proper clearance and while under Customs seal.
- +Customs defend halt of fuel discharge at TinCan over seal breach
The Service said on Thursday that its officers boarded the vessel on May 23, 2026, after it arrived from the Dangote Refinery, during which it was found to be lacking critical documentation, including the mandatory Last Port Clearance.
The Service said on Thursday that its officers boarded the vessel on May 23, 2026, after it arrived from the Dangote Refinery, during which it was found to be lacking critical documentation, including the mandatory Last Port Clearance.
The vessel was subsequently placed under Customs control and sealed, while its agent was given time to produce the outstanding documents.
According to Customs, the situation escalated on May 27 when intelligence indicated that the vessel had begun discharging fuel at the MRS Terminal (Dantata Jetty) “without obtaining the requisite Customs clearance and while still under official Customs seal.”
Officials said they immediately mobilised to the terminal, where they encountered resistance from security personnel before gaining access and ordering a halt to the operation.
“The officers directed the ship master to immediately discontinue the unauthorised discharge activity and report to the Enforcement Unit to provide official statements,” the Service said, adding that the vessel was subsequently resealed.
Customs clarified that the ship master was not arrested, but only invited to provide a statement as part of ongoing investigations.
Citing its legal backing, the Service said the enforcement action was grounded in provisions of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, particularly sections governing Customs control zones, inspection powers, and goods under supervision.
It argued that the alleged discharge breached reporting, declaration, and unloading requirements under the Act, adding that investigations were ongoing into both the unauthorised discharge and alleged obstruction of officers.
“The Service reiterates that no vessel, terminal operator, shipping company, or individual is above the law,” it said, warning that all operators must comply fully with clearance procedures before commencing cargo operations.
