Cargo Vandalism,‘Wharf Rats’ Claims At Tin Can Port False – Clearing Agents

The Tin Can Island Chapter of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA) has dismissed reports alleging cargo vandalism and the activities of so-called “wharf rats” at Tin Can Island Port, describing the claims as false, misleading, and not supported by evidence.

The chapter’s secretary, Nwegbe Frankypaul, and the chairman of the chapter, Prince Olawale Cole, in a jointly signed statement, said investigations conducted by the association’s executive members in collaboration with the management of Five Star Logistics Terminal found no record of any complaint regarding missing cargo or vandalism.

According to him, no individual or member of the association had formally reported such incidents to the terminal’s claims department in relation to the allegations.

The statement further clarified that the video circulating on social media alongside the report does not appear to have originated from the Five Star Logistics Terminal facility at Tin Can Island Port, nor does it involve cargo stored in the Sallum warehouse. The association therefore cautioned the public against linking the footage to operations at the terminal.

ANLCA explained that the terminal operates a designated claims department where incidents involving cargo damage or vandalism are officially reported and documented, noting that such procedures are essential for proper investigation and resolution of complaints.

Frankypaul stressed that the association remains committed to addressing concerns raised by stakeholders through appropriate institutional channels. He urged members and port users to avoid spreading unverified information that could create unnecessary tension within the port community.

He added that the chapter encourages transparency and proper documentation of complaints, enabling authorities and terminal operators to investigate issues effectively.

Also commenting on the issue, the chapter’s public relations officer, Onome Joy, called on stakeholders who have credible evidence of vandalised cargo or vehicles within the port to present such evidence through the appropriate channels.

Joy noted that both terminal operators and shipping companies maintain functional complaint and claims departments where affected parties can formally report incidents for proper documentation and follow-up.

At the same time, she urged the management of Five Star Logistics Terminal to further strengthen security measures within the facility to meet stakeholders’ expectations regarding cargo safety at the port.

She added that the association’s task force remains actively engaged in monitoring activities within the terminal and working with operators to ensure that security procedures are effectively implemented.

The chapter reiterated that its leadership remains committed to professionalism, responsible communication, and constructive engagement with stakeholders across Nigeria’s maritime sector.