The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has achieved a major milestone in its fight against smuggling, with the largest single seizure of smuggled Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) in Kebbi State.
This significant breakthrough was made possible through Operation Whirlwind, a targeted initiative aimed at curbing illicit fuel smuggling.
According to Assistant Comptroller General (ACG) Hussein Ejibunu, who spoke on behalf of the Comptroller General of Customs, the seized fuel poses a serious threat to Nigeria’s economy, leading to revenue losses, distorted trade statistics, artificial scarcity, and national security threats.
The interception, based on credible intelligence, occurred in the Tsamiya area of Kebbi State after days of surveillance.
The seized items include Truck Plate number DC 7184 RB, containing 766 jerrycans of 25 liters each and 18 drums of 200 liters each of PMS.
Another truck, number AT 2457 RUP, was found to contain 1,454 25-liter jerrycans and 18 200-liter drums of PMS.
A third truck, number BV C240 Arubi, contained 1,350 jerrycans, each 25 liters, and 18 drums, each 200 liters, of PMS. Additionally, 805 kegs of 25 liters of PMS were seized at various flashpoints in the zone.
The NCS has reiterated its commitment to sustaining the fight against fuel smuggling and strengthening inter-agency collaboration to secure Nigeria’s borders.
The seized PMS was sold at a controlled price of 10,000 per 25-liter jerrican to ensure citizens benefit rather than the smugglers.
Customs Area Controller of Kebbi Command, Comptroller Chidi Nwakureke, emphasized the agency’s dedication to enforcing trade regulations and facilitating legitimate trade.
The NCS has reaffirmed its determination to sustain momentum in tackling smuggling while strengthening partnerships with stakeholders to facilitate legitimate trade.
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