The Operation Whirlwind Team of Niger/Kwara Axis , under the Kwara Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has successfully intercepted a large consignment of illegal Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) amounting to 1,510 Jerry-cans (25 litres each) and 30 drums (200 litres each), totaling 43,750 litres of PMS. The estimated Duty Paid Value (DPV) of the seized product is ₦43,750,000.
According to the Operation Whirlwind National Coordinator, Deputy Comptroller Abubakar Aliyu who disclosed this to journalists, strategic operation, carried out in various flashpoints across Kwara, including Kaima Axis, Shiya, Kenu, Boriya, and others, showcases the ongoing commitment of the Nigerian Customs Service and its partners to curb economic sabotage through illicit petroleum trade.
“These seizures underscore our unwavering commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s strategic resources and ensuring they benefit all Nigerians.”
The operation received vital support from the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), which provided critical intelligence, as well as the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), whose regulatory framework ensures the effectiveness of such actions. The Nigerian Customs Service, led by Comptroller-General Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, continues to provide crucial leadership in these efforts.
Operation Whirlwind’s success is a testament to the importance of vigilance in combating the unlawful diversion of petroleum products, which not only depletes national resources but fuels criminal activity, undermines security, and distorts the economy. The operation has sent a strong message to those involved in smuggling that their impunity will no longer be tolerated.
“We will continue to identify, pursue, and dismantle smuggling networks wherever they exist.Let this serve as a clear and unequivocal warning to all individuals involved in nefarious activities of illegal smuggling of petroleum products; the era of impunity has come to an end. Operation Whirlwind is resolute, proactive, and firmly driven by intelligence in its operations.
As part of the process, a public auction for the seized products will take place, ensuring transparency and accountability in the handling of the products. The Nigerian government remains committed to protecting its petroleum resources, ensuring they are used in a manner that serves the collective interest of the nation.
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