The Nigeria Customs Service has intercepted and seized a total of 57,370 litres of Premium Motor Spirit, also known as petrol, in Adamawa and Taraba states as part of its intensified crackdown on smuggling in the North-East.
The operation, carried out under Operation Whirlwind, is aimed at curbing the illegal movement of petroleum products across the region.
Speaking to journalists in Yola on Friday, the National Coordinator of the operation, Assistant Comptroller General of Customs, Hussain Ejibunu, credited the successful seizures to modern technology introduced by the Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Bashir.
Ejibunu described fuel smuggling as a persistent challenge, driven by economic imbalances and the quest for quick profits.
“In Gembu, Taraba State, a seizure of 1,149 jerrycans of Premium Motor Spirit, containing 30 litres each, was made—amounting to a total volume of 34,470 litres.
“Earlier this month, our dedicated officers intercepted and seized 916 jerrycans of PMS, each containing 25 litres, yielding a total volume of 22,900 litres at the flashpoints of Maiha, Mubi, Gurin, and Belel in Adamawa State,” he said.
He further explained that the intercepted fuel, with a Duty Paid Value of N22.9 million, was being transported through illegal routes for illicit trade, which poses a threat to Nigeria’s economy and security.
“This operation was intelligence-driven and executed with precision, reflecting the unwavering commitment of the Nigeria Customs Service to safeguarding our nation’s resources and ensuring compliance with the law,” he stated.
Ejibunu also highlighted the role of inter-agency collaboration in the success of the operation.
“This interception is not just a victory for the Nigeria Customs Service but also a testament to the effectiveness and collaborative support of the Office of the National Security Adviser and other security agencies,” he said.
He assured that the NCS would continue to adopt innovative strategies, leveraging technology and intelligence, to combat smuggling and protect the nation’s resources.
