Operatives of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Seme Area Command, have successfully intercepted a vehicle suspected to be carrying materials linked to an improvised explosive device (IED) along with a significant quantity of mercury—raising fresh security and environmental concerns at Nigeria’s western land border.
Acting on credible intelligence, Customs officers on patrol flagged down a suspicious vehicle attempting to cross the Seme-Krake border on the night of May 17, 2025. Upon inspection, the vehicle was found to be transporting several canisters believed to contain mercury, a highly toxic and regulated chemical substance. Further probing uncovered items suspected to be components of an IED, prompting the immediate involvement of security and anti-bomb experts.
The Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Timi Bomodi, who confirmed the development, described the interception as “a significant breakthrough in safeguarding national security and preventing potential environmental disaster.”
“Our officers acted swiftly and in accordance with our intelligence-driven operational mandate. What they uncovered suggests a possible plot involving dangerous substances, both for security sabotage and hazardous environmental exposure,” Comptroller Bomodi stated during a media briefing at the Command’s headquarters.
Mercury, which is classified as a hazardous chemical under international conventions, is strictly regulated in Nigeria due to its health risks and potential misuse in illegal mining and industrial sabotage. The movement of the substance without proper documentation or safety clearance is a criminal offense under both national and international law.
Security operatives from the Nigerian Army’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit and the Department of State Services (DSS) have since taken custody of the suspected explosive materials for forensic analysis and further investigation, while the driver and an accomplice were arrested and remain in detention for interrogation.
Comptroller Bomodi reiterated the Command’s zero-tolerance stance on cross-border crime, emphasizing that the Seme Command will continue to work closely with other security agencies to prevent the border from being exploited by criminal elements.
He also urged members of the public, especially residents in border communities, to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movements or activities to relevant authorities.
This seizure comes amid heightened concerns about the porous nature of Nigeria’s borders and the role they may play in smuggling and potential acts of sabotage. The Nigeria Customs Service has recently stepped up surveillance and adopted intelligence-led operations across its formations, particularly at sensitive entry and exit points.
The seized vehicle and hazardous materials are currently being held as evidence, pending the conclusion of investigations and prosecution of those found culpable.
As Nigeria grapples with complex security and environmental challenges, the Seme Customs Command’s swift action sends a strong message that the nation’s borders will not be used as safe passage for crime or subversion.
