The Nigeria Customs Service has warned individuals and networks involved in the illegal diversion and cross-border smuggling of petroleum products, saying Operation Whirlwind will remain relentless in identifying and dismantling smuggling networks across the country.
The National Coordinator, Operation Whirlwind, Deputy Comptroller Lucky Aliyu, gave the warning in Lagos during a public auction of 22,175 litres of Premium Motor Spirit intercepted by operatives of the anti-smuggling operation in the Zone A axis.
He said “ithe seizures should serve as a clear warning to those engaged in the illegal movement of petroleum products that the Nigeria Customs Service would intensify surveillance, intelligence gathering and enforcement operations to protect the nation’s economic interests and energy security.”
According to him, “the intercepted petroleum product was recovered during operations conducted at identified smuggling flashpoints, including Imeko, Ilara, Ilaro, Idiroko and Seme-Badagry, following credible and actionable intelligence.”
The National Coordinator said that the seizures comprised 887 jerry cans, each containing 25 litres of PMS, as well as five means of conveyance, with a combined Duty Paid Value of N32.175 million.
He explained that Operation Whirlwind was established as a targeted anti-smuggling initiative to check illegal movement, diversion and cross-border smuggling of petroleum products meant for domestic consumption.
Aliyu also warned that the service would not be deterred by the scale of the smuggling operation, stressing that its enforcement activities would continue to target both the products and the networks facilitating their illegal movement.
“Operation Whirlwind remains resolute, relentless and intelligence-driven. We will continue to identify, intercept and dismantle smuggling networks wherever they operate,” he said.
The National Coordinator explained that the fight against petroleum smuggling was critical to protecting Nigeria’s economy and strengthening energy security.
He said that illegal diversion of products meant for domestic consumption could undermine government efforts to ensure adequate supply.
He also appealed to residents of border communities and other members of the public to support the Customs Service and relevant security and regulatory agencies by providing timely, accurate and credible information on suspicious activities.
The Deputy Comptroller said public cooperation remained essential to achieving sustainable success in the fight against smuggling and economic sabotage.
