Customs Seizes Largest PMS Haul in Kebbi, Vows to Intensify Anti-Smuggling Efforts
In a major breakthrough under Operation Whirlwind, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has recorded its largest single seizure of smuggled Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) in Kebbi State since the launch of the operation.
The announcement was made during a press briefing in Kebbi State by the Assistant Comptroller-General (ACG) of Financial Administration and Special Duty, as well as the National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, Hussein Ejibunu, who spoke on behalf of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR.
According to ACG Ejibunu, the smuggling of PMS poses a significant threat to Nigeria’s economy, contributing to revenue losses, distorting trade statistics, creating artificial fuel scarcity, and jeopardising national security.
He stressed that the recent interception underscored the NCS’s unwavering resolve to combat the illicit trade.
“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,” Ejibunu stated.
The operation, driven by credible intelligence and days of surveillance, occurred in the Tsamiya area of Kebbi State. The seized items included:
Truck Plate Number DC 7184 RB (Nigeria Plate Number): Contained 766 jerrycans of 25 litres each and 18 drums of 200 litres each of PMS.
Truck Plate Number AT 2457 RUP (Republic of Benin Plate): Carried 1,454 jerrycans of 25 litres each and 18 drums of 200 litres each of PMS.
Truck Plate Number BV C240 Arubi (Republic of Benin Plate): Contained 1,350 jerrycans of 25 litres each and 18 drums of 200 litres each of PMS.
In addition, 805 kegs of 25 litres of PMS were intercepted at various smuggling flashpoints across the region, including Dole Kaina, Zaria Kalakala, Tunga Waterside, Lolo, and Tsamiya.
To ensure that the seized fuel benefits citizens rather than smugglers, the confiscated PMS was sold at a controlled price of N10,000 per 25-litre jerrycan.
Addressing stakeholders at the briefing, Comptroller Chidi Nwakureke, the Customs Area Controller for Kebbi Command, reaffirmed the NCS’s dedication to suppressing smuggling activities in Kebbi State.
“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,” Nwakureke warned.
He praised Customs officers for their vigilance and commended their effective use of intelligence in ensuring successful enforcement actions, highlighting the importance of collaboration with other security agencies in achieving these milestones.
“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.
On his return journey from Kebbi, ACG Ejibunu visited the Sokoto Customs Area Command, where he met with Comptroller Umar Abdulkadir, the Customs Area Controller for Sokoto-Zamfara Command, alongside officers and men of the Service.
During the visit, Ejibunu conducted an inspection of personnel, reiterating the NCS’s determination to uphold border security and sustain its aggressive stance against smuggling.
The NCS reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening inter-agency collaboration while maintaining intensified efforts to curb smuggling and facilitate legitimate trade across the nation.
