By Sabiu Abdullahi
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has launched “Operation Whirlwind,” a targeted offensive against petroleum product smugglers, and has already recorded significant seizures and disruptions to smuggling operations.
Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC) Adewale Adeniyi announced on Monday that the service had intercepted 150,950 liters of PMS, valued at N105,965,391, in various locations nationwide within a week.
The CGC attributed the success to credible intelligence and strategic efforts to address fuel smuggling, which has seen a significant increase in recent months, particularly in Borno, Kebbi, Sokoto, Taraba, and Katsina states.
The service has collaborated with the Office of the National Security Adviser to dismantle smuggling cartels and defend the national currency.
Notable seizures include 45,000 liters of PMS in a tanker at Mubi, Adamawa State, on May 31 and June 1, and 92,928 liters of PMS in jerry cans at various locations in Adamawa, Sokoto, and Cross River states between June 3 and 7.
The total value of seizures stands at N196,524,075.50, raising concerns about national security and economic sabotage.
The CGC lamented the increase in smuggling and vowed to continue the operation to ensure Nigerians benefit from fuel price deregulation, in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision.