In a decisive move against cross-border fuel smuggling, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted petroleum products and vehicles valued at over ₦63 million during a five-week special enforcement operation in Adamawa State.
Codenamed Operation Whirlwind, the mission targeted known smuggling hotspots across Nigeria’s northeastern corridor, including Dasin-Fufore, Belel-Farang, Mubi-Sahuda, Maiha, and Girei-Wuro Bokki.
Addressing the media at the Customs House in Yola on Friday, Assistant Comptroller General HK Ejibunu, who represented the Comptroller-General of Customs, disclosed that the operation led to the seizure of 1,959 jerry cans of petrol—equivalent to nearly 49,000 litres—and five vehicles used for transporting the illegal fuel.
The total duty-paid value of the seized goods stands at ₦63,046,750. Ejibunu stated that smugglers abandoned their contraband and fled upon encountering enforcement officers.
“This operation reflects our commitment to supporting President Bola Tinubu’s agenda for energy and food security,” Ejibunu said. “By disrupting the illegal fuel supply chain, we are helping to stabilize prices and reduce scarcity.”
Due to the hazardous nature of the seized petrol, Customs authorities confirmed it will be auctioned immediately, with all proceeds to be remitted to the federation account in line with the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.
Ejibunu urged border communities to cooperate with security agencies by reporting suspicious activities, emphasizing that smuggling constitutes a grave act of economic sabotage. He also commended the support of the media, the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), and other partners in the ongoing fight against smuggling.
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