Customs busts fuel smuggling network, seizes PMS

By Fredrick Ameh

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), through its special enforcement unit, Operation Whirlwind, has dismantled a coordinated fuel smuggling network operating along Nigeria’s Southwest border corridor in a major crackdown on the illegal exportation of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).

The National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, Deputy Comptroller of Customs, Abubakar Aliyu, disclosed this during a press briefing held at the Customs Training College, Ikeja.

According to Aliyu, the intelligence-driven operation led to the interception of 14,875 litres of PMS, stored in 544 jerrycans of 24 litres each, as part of intensified efforts to curb cross-border smuggling.

“Over the past few weeks, our operatives, acting on credible intelligence, have successfully dismantled a coordinated network of smugglers engaged in the illegal export of PMS to neighbouring countries,” he said.

He explained that the seizures were made across multiple strategic smuggling routes, including Imeko, Ilara, Ilaro, Idiroko, and the Seme-Badagry axis, areas long identified as hotspots for illicit fuel movement.

The Duty Paid Value (DPV) of the seized product was estimated at ₦14.8 million, underscoring the economic scale of the operation and its potential impact on national revenue and fuel supply stability.

In line with existing regulations, the seized PMS was auctioned at subsidised rates to members of the public, a move aimed at reintroducing the product into the legitimate market while preventing diversion into illegal channels.

“This auction is being conducted with the participation of relevant government agencies, security personnel, and media representatives to ensure transparency, accountability, and integrity,” Aliyu added.

The Customs Service also credited the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) for its strategic guidance, noting that enhanced inter-agency collaboration has significantly strengthened enforcement outcomes.

Industry observers say the latest operation reflects renewed momentum in Nigeria’s fight against fuel smuggling, a long-standing challenge that has contributed to supply distortions and revenue losses.

With Operation Whirlwind intensifying surveillance across border communities, the NCS reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining pressure on smuggling networks and safeguarding the country’s economic interests.