Customs Seals Vessel for Unauthorized Fuel Discharge

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) sealed the MT Ny Maria vessel at Tincan Island for discharging premium motor spirit (PMS) without the requisite customs clearance. Mr. Termin Dantata, a representative of the NCS, stated that the vessel was found discharging petrol on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, without the mandatory last port clearance required from its origin.

The NCS had granted the vessel's agent a two-day period to provide the outstanding documentation, but the vessel commenced discharge operations without compliance. Mr. Oscar Ivara, Chief Superintendent of the NCS, emphasized that the vessel's actions constituted a violation of the Nigeria Customs Act 2023, specifically sections relating to customs control and inspection.

The enforcement unit faced resistance from security personnel at the terminal but managed to seal the vessel in accordance with legal procedures. The investigation into the incident is ongoing, and the ship's master was not arrested but invited to provide a statement.