The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has achieved a significant victory against smuggling activities through its specialized operation known as “Operation Whirlwind Strikes Smugglers.” This operation, focused on combating economic sabotage, recently resulted in the interception of a large quantity of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, along with several vehicles used in the illicit trade. The combined value of the seized petrol and vehicles is estimated at over ₦63 million. This operation underscores the NCS’s commitment to disrupting smuggling networks and protecting Nigeria’s economic interests.
The seizure, which occurred along the Lagos-Ogun axis, a known hotspot for smuggling activities, involved 1,577 jerrycans of petrol, each containing 25 litres, for a total of 39,425 litres. Eight vehicles utilized in transporting the contraband were also confiscated. Assistant Comptroller General (ACG) Hussein Ejibunu, the National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, described the operation as a major success and a testament to the relentless efforts of the NCS to curb smuggling and safeguard the nation’s economy. He emphasized the agency’s resolve to continue its crackdown on smugglers, declaring that there is no safe haven for those engaged in such illegal activities.
The operation targeted key smuggling routes and locations, including Ilaro, Imeko, Badagry, Owode, and Ajilete, all situated along the border between Nigeria and Benin Republic. Investigations conducted by the NCS revealed that the intercepted petrol was destined for illegal export to Benin Republic. This cross-border smuggling operation highlights the regional dimension of the challenge and the need for collaborative efforts to combat it effectively. The duty-paid value of the seized fuel is estimated at ₦39,425,000, while the eight confiscated vehicles are valued at ₦24,000,000, bringing the total value of the seized items to ₦63,425,000.
In line with the NCS’s commitment to public benefit, the seized petrol will be auctioned to the public at a subsidized rate of ₦10,000 per jerrycan. This decision, approved by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, aims to ensure that the public directly benefits from the successful operation against smugglers. The subsidized rate will provide an affordable source of fuel for citizens while simultaneously undermining the black market operations fueled by smuggling.
The success of Operation Whirlwind is attributed to the dedication, discipline, and resilience of the operatives involved. ACG Ejibunu acknowledged the significant milestones achieved in the fight against smuggling across all zones within the past year. He also recognized the importance of collaboration with strategic partners, including the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, and the Office of the Attorney General. This inter-agency cooperation strengthens the overall effectiveness of anti-smuggling efforts.
ACG Charles Orbih, the Zonal Coordinator for Zone ‘A’, echoed the sentiment, commending the success of Operation Whirlwind. He described the operation as a landmark achievement that reflects the unwavering commitment of NCS officers to protecting Nigeria’s economic and national security. The operation serves as a clear demonstration of the NCS’s determination to dismantle smuggling networks and uphold the rule of law. The seizure of the substantial quantity of petrol and vehicles represents a major blow to the illegal smuggling trade and contributes to the government’s broader efforts to secure the nation’s borders and protect its economic interests. The commitment to auctioning the seized fuel at a subsidized price underscores the NCS’s dedication to serving the public interest.
