The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), through its “Operation Whirlwind,” has seized 34,470 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) worth N22.9 million along the border axis in Adamawa State.
Briefing journalists in Yola, the Adamawa State capital, the coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, ACG Husinnien Ejibunu, said the seizures were carried out in Maiha, Mubi, Gurin, and Belel—all border towns in Adamawa State.
The ACG noted that the operations were carried out based on intelligence reports on smuggling activities in the aforementioned border towns, resulting in the arrest of 916 25kg jerrycans fully loaded with PMS.
According to the coordinator, the duty-paid value of the seized petroleum products is N2.9 million, adding that “because of the nature of the product, it will be auctioned to the general public immediately.”
“The seized items, with an estimated Duty Paid Value (DPV) of Twenty-Two Million, Nine Hundred Thousand Naira Only (N22,900,000), were being transported through unauthorized routes, intended for illicit trade that undermines our economy and security.”
“This interception is not just a victory for the Customs Service but a testament to the effectiveness and supportive collaboration of the ONSA and NMDPRA. Smuggling of PMS remains a significant challenge, driven by economic disparities and the lure of quick profits.”
ACG Husinnien Ejibunu also reiterated the commitment of the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, to dismantling smuggling networks and bringing economic saboteurs to justice.
He stressed that only yesterday, a press briefing in Taraba announced the seizure of 1,149 jerrycans of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), each containing 30 liters, totaling 34,470 liters.
“The relentless efforts of Operation Whirlwind to combat PMS smuggling and protect Nigeria’s economic interests have once again yielded significant results.”
He further noted that “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.”
“I want to commend the officers and men of Operation Whirlwind for their bravery, vigilance, and professionalism. Your dedication inspires confidence in our ability to protect Nigeria’s economic sovereignty.”
While calling on the general public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest Customs office, he added that “together, we can create a safer and more prosperous Nigeria.”
“The Nigeria Customs Service will continue to adapt and innovate in its fight against smuggling, leveraging technology, intelligence, and collaboration to stay ahead of criminal elements.”
