Smuggled Premium Motor Spirit PMS, also called petrol, loaded in 25-litre jerry cans and drums (file photo)

The anti-petroleum products smuggling squad of the Nigeria Customs Service; Operation Whirlwind, has made its single largest seizure of Premium Motor Spirit PMS in Kebbi State since its inception, totaling 4,375 units of 25-litre jerry cans and another 18 drums containing 200 litres per piece, bringing a cumulative total of 116, 575 litres.

Details of the seizure, which was based on credible intelligence show that 766 jerry cans of 25 litres each and 18 drums of 200 litres per piece laden on a truck with plate number DC 7184 RB (Nigerian plate number), occurred in the Tsamiya area of Kebbi State after days of surveillance.

Another consignment of the product comprised 1,454 units of 25-litre jerry cans and 18drums of 200-litre drums of the PMS were also laden on a truck with plate number AT 2457 RUP (Republic of Benin plate number) while another truck with plate number BV C240 Arubi (Republic of Benin plate) was laden with 1,350 jerry cans, each 25 litres, and 18 drums of 200 litres per piece of PMS.

Additionally, 805 jerry cans of 25 litres of PMS were seized at various flashpoints within the zone, including Dole Kaina Zaria Kalakala Tunga Waterside, Lolo, and Tsamiya.

Briefing newsmen in the state, Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, who was represented by Assistant Comptroller General ACG, Financial Administration and Special Duty, and National Coordinator, Operation WhirWind, Hussein Ejibunu, said the Service is poised to dealing with economic saboteurs, especially smugglers of petroleum products.

“The smuggling of PMS poses a serious threat to the Nigerian economy, leading to revenue losses, distortion of trade statistics, artificial scarcity, and threats to national security. This operation demonstrates the unwavering commitment of the Nigeria Customs Service 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,” he stated.

Ejibunu reiterated the NCS’s commitment to sustaining the fight against fuel smuggling and strengthening inter-agency collaboration to secure Nigeria’s borders.

It was gathered that the seized PMS has been sold at a controlled price of N10,000 per 25-litre jerry can to ensure citizens benefit rather than the smugglers.

Speaking at the Press Conference, Customs Area Controller of Kebbi Command, Comptroller Chidi Nwakureke, reiterated the commitment of the command to combating smuggling in Kebbi State, emphasising that a strengthened resolve to curb illicit trade activities. He assured stakeholders of the Service’s dedication to enforcing trade regulations.

“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 said.

The event showcased recent seizures, underscoring the effectiveness of intelligence-driven operations. Nwakureke commended the efforts of Customs officers in executing successful enforcement actions.

He also acknowledged the collaboration with sister agencies, highlighting their critical role in 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,” Nwakureke added.

The NCS reaffirmed its determination to sustain momentum in tackling smuggling while strengthening partnerships with stakeholders to facilitate legitimate trade.

Meanwhile, on his way back from Kebbi, Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs Hussein Ejibunu visited the Sokoto Customs Area Command, where he met with Customs Area Controller Sokoto-Zamfara Command, Comptroller Umar Abdulkadir and officers and men of the Service.

During the visit, he inspected command officers and men, reaffirming the NCS’s commitment to border security and the fight against smuggling.