The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) through its ‘Operation Whirlwind’ has recorded its largest seizure of smuggled Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) popularly known as petrol in Kebbi State with the interception of 125,000 litres in different containers.
Hussein Ejibunu, the Assistant Comptroller General (ACG) of Financial Administration and Special Duty, and the National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, who represented the Comptroller General of Customs, CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi disclosed this at a press briefing in Kebbi on Tuesday.
ACG Ejibunu explained that the smuggling of petrol poses a serious threat to the Nigerian economy, leading to revenue losses, distortion of trade statistics, artificial scarcity, and threats to national security.
He stressed that the operation demonstrates Customs’ unwavering commitment to curbing illegal fuel smuggling.
“This seizure marks a significant milestone in our efforts to protect Nigeria’s critical resources. The Nigeria Customs Service remains resolute in tackling smuggling activities that undermine government policies and economic stability.
“The interception, which was based on credible intelligence, occurred in the Tsamiya area of Kebbi State after days of surveillance. The seized items include Truck Plate number DC 7184 RB (Nigeria Plate Number), which contains 766 jerry cans of 25 litres each and 18 drums of 200 litres each of PMS,” Ejibunu stated.
He also revealed that Truck number AT 2457 RUP (Republic of Benin plate number ) contained 1,454 (25-litre) jerry cans and 18 (200-litre) drums of PMS.
“Truck number BV C240 Arubi—Republic of Benin plate number contained 1,350 jerry cans, each 25 litres, and 18 drums, each 200 litres, of PMS.
“Additionally, 805 kegs of 25 litres of PMS were seized at various flashpoints in the zone, including Dole Kaina Zaria Kalakala Tunga Waterside, Lolo, and Tsamiya,” the ACG added.
Ejibunu reiterated the Service’s commitment to sustaining the fight against fuel smuggling and strengthening inter-agency collaboration to secure Nigeria’s borders.
He mentioned that the seized petrol was sold at a controlled price of ₦10,000 per 25-litre jerrycan to ensure citizens benefit, rather than the smugglers.
On his part, the Customs Area Controller of Kebbi Command, Comptroller Chidi Nwokorie, reaffirmed commitment to combatting smuggling in Kebbi State, emphasising a strengthened resolve to curb illicit trade activities.
Comptroller Nwokorie assured stakeholders of the agency’s dedication to enforcing trade regulations saying, “We remain committed to facilitating trade and ensuring a seamless business environment for legitimate traders. For smugglers, our operations will only intensify to bring smuggling to its lowest possible level.”
He commended the efforts of the Customs’ officers in executing successful enforcement actions, and acknowledged the collaboration with sister agencies, highlighting their critical role in the ongoing anti-smuggling initiatives.
“This success is a testament to the dedication and synergy between Customs and other security agencies. We will continue to work together to protect the nation’s economy,” Nwokorie added.
The NCS reaffirmed its determination to sustain momentum in tackling smuggling while strengthening partnerships with stakeholders to facilitate legitimate trade.
Similarly, ACG Ejibunu visited the Sokoto Customs Area Command, where he met with Customs Area Controller of Sokoto-Zamfara Command, Comptroller Umar Abdulkadir and officers and men of the Service.
He urged the Command’s officers and men to be diligent and watchful in discharging their duties, highlighting Customs commitment to border security and the fight against smuggling.
