News Investigators/ The Nigeria Customs Service has intercepted 35,535 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), worth ₦58.36 million, at several notorious smuggling flashpoints known for fuel diversion.
Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, confirmed the development during a news briefing held in Lagos on Friday.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports the conference focused on petroleum product interceptions by Operation Whirlwind in Zone A.
Mr Adeniyi said the zone, acting on intelligence and a renewed mandate, intercepted 1,134 jerrycans (25/30 litres) and 33 drums of PMS totalling 35,535 litres.
He was represented by Assistant Comptroller-General, Hussein Ejibunu, who said the seizures were made across flashpoints within Ajilete, Ijoun, Ilaro, Badagry, Owode, Eree, and Obada Imeko.
He said, “Today, I’m pleased to announce a major breakthrough by Operation Whirlwind officers across Lagos and Ogun States.
“Over the past two to three weeks, our officers have significantly countered PMS smuggling attempts aimed at illegal export to the Republic of Benin.
“These products, hidden and prepared for illegal export, were seized alongside six vehicles used to convey the items.
“The total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of both the seized fuel and vehicles amounts to ₦58.36 million.”
The comptroller-general said these seizures highlight the efficiency and precision of Customs’ anti-smuggling operations.
He noted the development demonstrates Customs’ commitment to fighting economic sabotage and protecting national energy security.
“The smuggling of PMS causes revenue losses and worsens pressures on the country’s fragile fuel supply chain.
“At a time of energy distribution challenges, we cannot allow saboteurs to endanger national interest for personal gain,” he said.
Mr Adeniyi said these efforts reflect the service’s dedication to economic protection, asset security, and anti-smuggling enforcement.
He added that surveillance and enforcement have been intensified in smuggling-prone areas across the country.
He called on citizens, especially in border communities, to support Customs with timely and accurate intelligence on smuggling activities.
Meanwhile, Adeniyi revealed that the Federal Operations Unit, Zone A Ikeja, intercepted goods valued at ₦1.78 billion between June 3 and July 18.
He also said Customs recovered ₦95.59 million in underpaid duties within the same period.
Nine suspects were arrested in connection with the seizures; some received administrative bail while others were handed to security agencies.
The Comptroller-General praised Operation Whirlwind, led by ACG Ejibunu, and FOU Zone A Comptroller Mohammad Shau’aib, for their exemplary service.
He said beyond enforcement, the Unit ensures compliance with import and export laws.
Mr Adeniyi said Customs continues to investigate false declarations, correct under-valuations, and issue appropriate Demand Notices (DNs).
He stressed the FOU’s vital role in facilitating trade while balancing security with economic development through intelligence-driven operations.
NAN also reports that intercepted cannabis sativa was handed to NDLEA Deputy Commander for Assets and Finance, Nasir Bungudu.
NAN