The Special Squad of the Nigeria Customs Service codenamed Operation Whirlwind, has smashed a criminal syndicate that specialises in smuggling and illegally exporting Premium Motor Spirit PMS, within the Southwest region, which hosts the country’s two busiest land borders, the Seme and Idiroko borders, in a renewed anti-smuggling campaign.

National Coordinator of the Squad, Deputy Comptroller of Customs DC, Abubakar Aliyu, told newsmen during a press briefing, which held at the Customs Training College, Ikeja, Lagos that recent operations led to the interception of 14,875 litres of PMS.

“Over the past few weeks, our operatives, acting on credible intelligence, have successfully dismantled a coordinated network of smugglers engaged in the illegal export of PMS to neighbouring countries. During the exercise, a total of 544 jerry cans, each containing 24 litres, were seized, amounting to 14,875 litres,” he said.

Aliyu explained that the interceptions were made across several strategic locations, including Imeko, Ilara, Ilaro, Idiroko, and the Seme-Badagry axis. He added that the total Duty Paid Value DPV, of the seized product stands at ₦14,875,000.

In line with existing regulations, the seized PMS was auctioned at subsidised rates to ensure it is returned to the legitimate market and not diverted into illicit channels.

“This auction is being carried out with the participation of relevant government agencies, security personnel, and media representatives to ensure transparency, accountability, and integrity in the disposal process,” he stated.

The National Coordinator also commended the strategic guidance of the Office of the National Security Adviser ONSA, noting that its directives have strengthened inter-agency collaboration and enhanced operational efficiency in the fight against smuggling.