The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has successfully intercepted 199,495 litres of smuggled fuel in Adamawa State, auctioning it to local residents at a price of N630 per litre at selected filling stations.
This operation is part of NCS’s ongoing efforts to combat smuggling and protect Nigeria’s economy. The seized fuel, with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of ₦199,495,000, was being trafficked using tankers, jerry cans, and drums across the state’s borders.
Combatting Smuggling Through Intelligence-Driven Operations
Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, confirmed that the interception of this large quantity of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) was the result of intelligence-driven operations by NCS officers in the Adamawa/Taraba Command. Operation Whirlwind played a key role in the bust, as officers targeted critical smuggling routes such as Mova, Dasin, the Galamba-Song axis, and the Mubi-Maiha corridor.
Adeniyi condemned the actions of smugglers, describing them as “economic saboteurs” who seek to harm the nation’s energy sector and destabilize its economy. Despite the Nigerian government’s economic reforms under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, smugglers remain determined to undermine these efforts.
“These economic saboteurs are determined to inflict hardship on law-abiding Nigerians, but let it be clearly understood that the Nigeria Customs Service remains resolute in its mandate to protect our national economy,” said Adeniyi.
Strategic Interceptions and Smuggling Tactics
The customs chief also detailed the smuggling tactics used by these criminals. Smugglers often rely on nighttime river crossings at locations like the Dasin Waterways, as well as illegal storage facilities near border towns. Some even attempt to conceal fuel at unauthorized dispensing points to evade detection.
Despite these sophisticated methods, Adeniyi reassured the public that the NCS will continue to refine its strategies, enhance intelligence gathering, and work closely with other security agencies to close in on smugglers.
“There will be no safe haven for them within our operational areas,” he added.
Public Cooperation and Auctioning of Seized Fuel
The NCS has called on the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities. In line with the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, the seized petroleum products were legally auctioned to residents of Adamawa State at N630 per litre, with 25-litre jerry cans sold for N10,000 each. The auction took place at designated filling stations.
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