Customs Dismantles Smuggling Network, Seizes 34,470 Litres of PMS

Customs Dismantles Smuggling Network, Seizes 34,470 Litres of PMS

…As CGC Approves Public Auction at Subsidised Rate

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted 34,470 litres of smuggled Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) along the Adamawa and Taraba border corridors. Acting on intelligence, operatives seized 1,149 jerrycans of fuel and a specially modified transport vehicle valued at ₦4 million. The total duty-paid value of the confiscated items stands at ₦37.78 million.

Speaking at a press briefing in Jalingo, Taraba State capital, on Thursday, March 13, 2025, Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, described the operation as a decisive move against the growing sophistication of cross-border smuggling networks.

“Our intelligence-led operations confirm that this corridor serves as a key transit route for petroleum diversion. Beyond revenue losses, smuggling disrupts supply chains, fuels artificial scarcity, and threatens regional security,” Adeniyi stated.

Crackdown on Internal Collusion

The CGC also warned against internal collusion, revealing that some officers and members of border communities are aiding smugglers. “We are investigating these allegations, and anyone found complicit will face the full wrath of the law,” he declared.

Reinforcing Anti-Smuggling Operations

Comptroller of Customs for Adamawa/Taraba Command, Garba Bashir, reiterated the dangers of smuggling, stating that illicit trade weakens legitimate business, drains national revenue, and fuels criminal activities.

“Under the leadership of the Comptroller General, Operation Whirlwind has intensified efforts to dismantle these smuggling syndicates,” he said.

Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, Hussaini Ejibunu, highlighted the efficiency of intelligence-led operations, disclosing that the entire seizure was made within three hours. “This operation was based on real-time intelligence rather than routine checkpoints. The results confirm that Taraba is being used as a smuggling route,” he said.

He urged residents to cooperate with security agencies, emphasizing that smugglers will be prosecuted. “If you see something, say something,” he advised.

Seized Fuel to Be Sold at Subsidised Rate

To cushion the impact of smuggling-induced fuel shortages, the Comptroller General directed that the confiscated PMS be auctioned to citizens at a subsidised rate.

The Nigeria Customs Service reaffirmed its commitment to securing Nigeria’s borders and protecting the economy from the harmful effects of smuggling.