Customs Clampdown on PMS Smugglers Along Lagos/Ogun Axis
... Impound Tankers, products worth several billions of naira

By Ebenezer William

As Part of its unwavering commitment to safeguard the nation’s economy, protect critical national assets, and combat the menace of smuggling, the Nigeria Customs Service has intensified its surveillance and enforcement operations across strategic flashpoints known for illicit petroleum product smuggling activities.
This significant breakthrough was made by the gallant Officers and Men of Operation Whirlwind in Zone A, covering parts of Lagos and Ogun States respectively.
In a media briefing, the Controller General of Nigeria Customs stated that within the last 2–3 weeks, Operatives stationed under Zone A have made significant strides in countering the smuggling of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) destined for illegal export to the Republic of Benin. 

 The Operatives, acting on credible intelligence and in line with our renewed mandate, successfully intercepted a total of: 1,134 Jerricans of 25 litres/30 litres respectively and 33 drums of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) yielding a volume of 35,535 litres, at various notorious smuggling flashpoints within Ajilete Axis, Ijoun Axis, Ilaro Axis, Badagry Axis, Owode Idiroko Axis, Eree Ado-Odo, and Obada Imeko Axis.

According to the report, the petroleum products, carefully concealed and being prepared for illegal export to the neighbouring Republic of Benin were intercepted along with six (6) vehicles being used as means of conveyance.

"The total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of the intercepted petroleum products and the conveying vehicles is to the tune of ₦58,360,000 (Fifty-Eight Million, Three Hundred and Sixty Thousand Naira Only).

"These arrests and seizures underscore the strategic efficiency and operational dexterity of our anti-smuggling units. It is also a clear indication of the resolve of the Nigeria Customs Service to clamp down on economic saboteurs whose actions threaten national energy security and undermine the policies of the Federal Government".

"It is pertinent to note that the smuggling of PMS not only results in revenue loss for the country but also places additional pressure on our already strained fuel supply chain. At a time when the nation is grappling with energy distribution challenges, we cannot afford to allow saboteurs to compromise our national interest for personal gain".

The CGC reiterated that the Nigeria Customs Service will not relent but will rather remain steadfast in its mission to ensure that Nigeria’s borders are protected against all forms of illegal trade and smuggling activities.

He commended the commitment and bravery of Officers and Men of Operation Whirlwind and urged all operatives across various formations to remain vigilant and resolute in their duties.

The Customs boss also called on citizens, especially those residing in border communities, to support the efforts of the Service by providing timely and credible information that will aid in the identification and apprehension of smugglers.

In conclusion, Adeniyi extend the service's heartfelt gratitude to the (ONSA) under the leadership of Mallam Nuhu Ribadu (mni) for his strong support and commitment in addressing security challenges in Nigeria, the NMDPRA and patriotic Nigerians who continue to stand with us in the pursuit of a resolute mission to dismantle smuggling networks and bring economic saboteurs to justice.