The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reported the seizure of goods valued at N93.03 million in Adamawa State over a six-week period as part of Operation Whirlwind, a special anti-smuggling initiative. This announcement was made in Yola on Friday by Abubakar Aliyu, the National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, who spoke on behalf of Comptroller-General Dr. Bashir Adeniyi. Aliyu emphasized that these seizures contribute to national efforts aimed at protecting food security, ensuring energy supply, and maintaining overall stability under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Aliyu detailed that the total Duty Paid Value of the seized items amounts to N93,029,800. Among the confiscated goods are 64,410 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (petrol), which were hidden in 2,550 jerry cans of 25 litres each, along with three drums of 220-litre capacity and two vehicles utilized for smuggling activities. Operation Whirlwind has successfully recorded 47 seizures across various border corridors, including Mubi-Sahuda, Farang-Belel, Gurin-Fufore, Maiha, Mubi, and Pariya-Wuro Bokki.
In a separate incident on April 15, operatives intercepted a DAF tanker suspected of diversion while carrying 50,000 litres of petrol along the Mubi-Uba road. This tanker has since been handed over to the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) for further investigation. Aliyu attributed the prevalence of smuggling to significant price disparities between Nigeria and neighboring countries such as Cameroon and Benin Republic, which create lucrative opportunities for illegal exporters. He reiterated that, despite the deregulation of fuel prices, the government remains committed to ensuring market stability and curbing illicit petroleum exports.
The seizures contravened sections 150, 248, and 250 of the NCS Act, 2023, and were conducted under the authority of section 226, which allows for free patrols and the apprehension of contraband goods. The seized petrol will be auctioned in accordance with legal provisions, with the proceeds directed to the Federation Account. Aliyu reaffirmed the NCS’s determination to dismantle smuggling networks and minimize illegal activities. He also commended the collaboration of the Office of the National Security Adviser, NMDPRA, other security agencies, and stakeholders.
The public is encouraged to provide timely and credible information to assist in the fight against smuggling, while the media is urged to raise awareness about the economic and security risks associated with illicit trade. This operation reflects Nigeria’s intensified border enforcement efforts as part of broader measures to protect national resources and promote regional stability.
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