The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) is set to implement a profiling operation on fuel stations located along border areas to crack down on the smuggling of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol. This initiative was announced by Comptroller-General Adewale Adeniyi at the Federal Operations Unit Zone A in Ikeja, following the successful seizure and subsequent auction of 39,425 litres of PMS.
Key Details of the Operation
Fuel Station Profiling:
Adeniyi explained that the profiling exercise will target both inactive and active fuel stations near the borders. The aim is to identify those outlets being exploited for PMS smuggling. Identified filling stations will be earmarked for review by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), which holds the licensing powers. Any station found in violation of regulations will be referred to the NMDPRA for further action.
Seizure and Auction of PMS:
During the recent operation, a total of 1,577 jerrycans (each holding 25 litres) of PMS were seized, amounting to 39,425 litres of the product. Alongside the fuel, eight vehicles used in the smuggling operations were also confiscated. The duty-paid value of the seized fuel and the means of conveyance was estimated at N63,425m.
The NCS announced that the seized PMS is slated to be auctioned at N10,000 per 25-litre jerrycan, resulting in a total duty-paid value of approximately N39.4m.
Operation Whirlwind and Broader Impact:
Represented at the event by the National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, Hussein Ejibunu, the operation has yielded impressive results. Adeniyi noted that in the South-Western zones of Lagos and Ogun states, the intercepted PMS was destined for smuggling into neighboring countries, including the Benin Republic. He underscored that similar auctions have taken place, such as a recent auction in Yola, Adamawa State, where over 46,000 litres of PMS were sold.
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Law Enforcement and Security Measures:
The operation has led to the arrest of four suspects. Two are already in court, with investigations ongoing to determine the involvement of the remaining suspects. Adeniyi highlighted the effective collaboration between customs operatives and the military when needed. He recalled a recent incident in Mudi where the display of military presence led to the immediate surrender of armed suspects, ensuring a peaceful resolution.
Impact and Future Actions
The profiling of border fuel stations is part of a broader strategy to combat fuel smuggling and ensure revenue protection, while also safeguarding the interests of the Nigerian public. The initiative by the NCS, coupled with robust operations like Operation Whirlwind, demonstrates the government’s commitment to curbing illegal activities that undermine the legal fuel supply chain.
With regular updates and further auctions planned, the Nigerian Customs Service remains focused on enhancing border security and disrupting smuggling networks. The proactive measures taken by the NCS are expected to yield significant long-term benefits for Nigeria’s energy sector and public safety.
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