Operation Whirlwind, crackdown on fuel smuggling, has yielded significant results with the seizure of 94,550 liters of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) valued at ₦75,450,900.
The Petroleum Products Anti-Smuggling Team, led by Controller-General Bashir Adewale Adaniyi, has intensified efforts to curb illegal exportation of petroleum products across multiple border regions.
“The team’s efforts have been yielding further results following its last update. Previously, the team seized 150,950 liters of PMS valued at ₦105,965,391”
According to Adaniyi, the team’s efforts have been yielding further results following its last update. Previously, the team seized 150,950 liters of PMS valued at ₦105,965,391.
Recent seizures were made in various locations, including the North-west borders of Sokoto-Kebbi axis, the South-west borders around Seme-Badagry and Idiroko axis, and the Southern borders of Cross River and Akwa Ibom states.
Operation Whirlwind seized two trucks with 33,000 liters capacity each filled with PMS intended to be smuggled, 1,046 jerricans of 25 liters capacity also filled with PMS, and 12 drums of 200 liters capacity filled with PMS. The total number of liters of PMS seized amounts to 94,550 liters.
Adaniyi stated that these seizures underscore the persistent nature of the challenges and the necessity of the team’s continued vigilance and action.
“These seizures underscore the persistent nature of the challenges and the necessity of the team’s continued vigilance and action”
A stakeholders’ conference was held in Abuja, attended by key players, including the National Security Adviser, Nigeria Customs Service, Nigeria Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulation Agency, security agencies, and industry stakeholders.
Adaniyi addressed pressmen in Adamawa, saying, “The commitment shown by all stakeholders will help reinforce our resolve and enhance our capacity to combat the national challenge effectively.”
He added, “We are actively implementing these strategies, and the results are evident in our recent seizures. We are also committed to engaging with local communities to raise awareness on the importance of compliance with customs regulations.”
Adaniyi urged stakeholders to continue supporting their efforts, saying, “We call on all residents of Adamawa and other border states to support this operation. We cannot achieve success alone. Your vigilance and cooperation are crucial in our collective effort to safeguard our nation’s resources.
“We are actively implementing these strategies, and the results are evident in our recent seizures”
He warned those engaging in illicit activities, “The full law will be brought on anyone caught smuggling our nation’s resources.”
The Nigeria Customs Service remains committed to protecting the country’s borders, facilitating legitimate trade, and supporting economic growth.
