An alleged gun smuggler, Buraimo Taofeek Olaoluwa, was remanded in the custody of Nigerian Correctional Services (NCoS) on Wednesday by a Federal High Court sitting in Lagos until August 18, when his bail request will be decided.
Following Olaoluwa's "not guilty" plea to a single-count charge brought against him by the Nigerian Customs Services, Justice Akintayo Aluko issued the ruling (NCS).
According to the NCS, Olaoluwa, of 2, Fisayo Street, Asherifa, lle-Ife, Osun State, smuggled sophisticated and high-caliber weapons and ammunition into the nation.
The offence was allegedly committed by him on March 18, 2022, about 3:45 am.
Some of the weapons include five Tavour 21 556mm Israeli rifles, one sword, seven pieces of OCK pistols, five M191 pistols developed by the United States Army, 28 pieces of guns manufactured by Colt Defence (USA), 50 pieces of rifle slings, 40 pieces of gun powder packs, 30 pieces of Rifle Butts and Glasses, 16 packs of silencer and 10 batteries (Small).
Others are 20 pieces of empty shell ammunition, four pistol holders (Common Hastlers), five articulated telescopes, six empty magazines, four Tricol, 20 low visibility carbines, one carton of gun powder, rifle accessories, one machine gun stand (Tripod), one AK rifle design and telescope, One SM 16 23523 rifle and telescope, one Rimington assorted rifle and telescope.
The offences, according to the prosecutor, B. G. Falade, contravened Section 47(1)(2) of the Customs and Excise Management Act (CEMA), 2004.
The defendant pleaded not guilty.
Following his plea, defence counsel Ayo O. prayed for a short date to enable him file Olaoluwa’s bail application.
Justice Aluko granted his application and adjourned till August 18.
The judge remanded the defendant in the NCoS’ custody, pending determination of the application.