The Nigeria Customs Service has intercepted 38,700 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, in a six-week operation targeting suspected smuggling activities across border communities in Adamawa State.
The seized petrol, alongside a vehicle allegedly used to transport the products, has a combined duty-paid value of ₦63.115 million, according to the National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, Deputy Comptroller-General Abubakar Aliyu.
Aliyu disclosed this during a press briefing in Yola, explaining that the operation was driven by intelligence on routes allegedly used to move petroleum products illegally across Nigeria’s borders.
He said operatives recovered 1,548 jerrycans of petrol, each containing 25 litres, bringing the total volume to 38,700 litres. A vehicle suspected of being used to convey the products was also intercepted.
The affected locations included Malabu-Belel, Girei-Wuro Bokki, Gurin-Fufore, Wuro Alhaji-Maiha and Mubi-Sahuda.
According to the Customs official, the operation was part of sustained efforts to disrupt smuggling networks and prevent petroleum products intended for domestic consumption from being diverted to neighbouring countries.
He warned that the illegal movement of fuel across borders could undermine domestic supply and negatively affect the economy.
Aliyu reaffirmed that Operation Whirlwind would continue its intelligence-led operations against suspected smugglers, stressing that the service remained committed to protecting Nigeria’s economic interests and ensuring public safety.
The latest seizure forms part of broader efforts by the Customs Service to curb illicit cross-border trade and enforce regulations governing the movement of petroleum products.
