Paragraph 1: Introduction and Background
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has launched a new initiative to combat the pervasive smuggling of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, across Nigeria’s borders. This operation involves profiling fuel stations located in border areas to identify those involved in illicit fuel trafficking. The announcement came during a public display of seized PMS at the Federal Operations Unit Zone A, Ikeja, where the NCS auctioned off a substantial quantity of confiscated fuel. Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, highlighted the importance of this profiling exercise in curbing the illegal outflow of subsidized petrol. The profiling will distinguish between active and inactive fuel stations near the borders, allowing the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) to make informed decisions about license issuance and renewals.
Paragraph 2: Collaboration with NMDPRA and Legal Action
The NCS is working in conjunction with the NMDPRA to address the issue of fuel smuggling. Fuel stations found complicit in smuggling activities will be reported to the NMDPRA for appropriate action, which could include license revocation or other penalties. The Comptroller-General emphasized that the NCS is not responsible for issuing or revoking licenses; their role is to identify and report offenders to the relevant regulatory body. This collaborative approach aims to streamline the process of holding culpable fuel stations accountable and deter further illegal activities. This inter-agency cooperation underscores the government’s commitment to addressing the economic and security implications of fuel smuggling.
Paragraph 3: Details of the Seizure and Arrests
The NCS revealed the details of a recent operation that led to the seizure of a significant quantity of smuggled PMS. A total of 1,577 jerrycans, each containing 25 litres of PMS, were confiscated, amounting to 39,425 litres. In addition to the fuel, eight vehicles used for transporting the contraband were also seized. The combined duty-paid value of the seized fuel and vehicles was estimated at N63.425 million. Four suspects were apprehended in connection with these seizures. Two of them are currently facing prosecution, while the other two remain under investigation to determine their level of involvement in the smuggling operation. This successful operation highlights the NCS’s commitment to enforcing the law and disrupting the illegal fuel trade.
Paragraph 4: Operation Whirlwind and its Impact
The recent seizures and arrests are part of Operation Whirlwind, an ongoing NCS initiative aimed at combating smuggling activities. Notably, the operation has prioritized minimizing the use of force. According to the Comptroller-General, no shots have been fired during Operation Whirlwind. In situations where potential conflict arises, the NCS collaborates with the military to maintain order and ensure peaceful resolutions. An example was cited in Mudi, where the mere presence of the military prompted smugglers to abandon their weapons and flee. This approach underscores the NCS’s commitment to upholding the law while minimizing the risk of violence. The success of Operation Whirlwind, as demonstrated by the recent seizures, is attributed to the dedication and perseverance of the operatives involved.
Paragraph 5: Auctioning of Seized Fuel and Collaboration with Stakeholders
The seized PMS was auctioned publicly following the press briefing. Each 25-litre jerrycan of petrol was sold for N10,000, significantly below the market price. This approach aims to make the fuel accessible to ordinary Nigerians while generating revenue for the government. Mr Patrick Musa, a representative from the NMDPRA, commended Operation Whirlwind for its effectiveness in disrupting the supply of fuel to criminal elements. This interception significantly reduces the resources available to those engaged in illicit activities, contributing to improved security and stability in the region. The public auction demonstrates a commitment to transparency and accountability in the handling of seized goods.
Paragraph 6: Geographic Scope and Continued Efforts
The seized PMS was intercepted in various locations within the South-Western zones of Lagos and Ogun states, including areas like Ilaro, Imeko, Badagry, Owode, and Ajilete. The smugglers’ intention was to transport the fuel to neighboring countries, primarily the Benin Republic. The NCS’s operations have effectively disrupted this illicit cross-border trade. The Comptroller-General highlighted a similar successful operation in Yola, Adamawa State, where over 46,000 litres of PMS were seized and subsequently auctioned the previous week. The nationwide scope of these operations underscores the NCS’s commitment to combating fuel smuggling across all borders, thereby protecting national revenue and ensuring the availability of fuel within Nigeria. The NCS continues to demonstrate its commitment to stemming the flow of smuggled fuel, and Operation Whirlwind remains a crucial tool in this ongoing effort.
