Customs seize 57,370 litres of PMS in Adamawa, Taraba
No fewer than 57,370 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (petrol) have been seized by the Nigeria Customs Service in Adamawa and Taraba states.
The seizure is part of the NCS’s renewed war against smuggling activities in the North-East, under an operation called Operation Whirlwind.
Addressing journalists on Friday in Yola, Adamawa State, the National Coordinator of the operation, Assistant Comptroller General of Customs, Hussain Ejibunu, stated that the seizures resulted from modern technology introduced into the service by the Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Bashir.
He noted that the smuggling of PMS remained a significant challenge, driven by economic disparities and the lure of quick profits.
Ejibunu said, “In Gembu, Taraba State, a seizure of 1,149 jerrycans of Premium Motor Spirit, containing 30 litres each, was made—amounting to a total volume of 34,470 litres.
Earlier this month, our dedicated officers intercepted and seized 916 jerrycans of PMS, each containing 25 litres, yielding a total volume of 22,900 litres at the flashpoints of Maiha, Mubi, Gurin, and Belel in Adamawa State.
“This operation was intelligence-driven and executed with precision, reflecting the unwavering commitment of the Nigeria Customs Service to safeguarding our nation’s resources and ensuring compliance with the law.”
The Customs boss disclosed that the seized items, with an estimated Duty Paid Value of N22,900,000, were being transported through unauthorised routes for illicit trade, which undermines Nigeria’s economy and security.
“This interception is not just a victory for the Nigeria Customs Service but also a testament to the effectiveness and collaborative support of the Office of the National Security Adviser and other security agencies,” he stated.
Ejibunu assured that the Nigeria Customs Service would continue to adapt and innovate in its fight against smuggling, leveraging technology, intelligence, and collaboration to stay ahead of criminal elements.
