Customs Operation Whirlwind Intercepts 49,500 Litres of Smuggled Petrol, Seals Filling Station in Badagry

ACG Kola oladeji, National Coordinator, Operation Whirlwind and Deputy Comptroller Abubakar Aliyu, Deputy National Coordinator during a press briefing on seizure of 49,500 litres of petroleum product’s in Lagos on Tuesday

The Operation Whirlwind of the Nigeria Customs Service have intercepted 1,980 jerricans of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) each measuring between 25 and 30 litres totaling 49,500 litres, within the Lagos and Ogun axis. The operation also led to the seizure of seven vehicles used as means of conveyance, with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of ₦80,452,000.

According to the National Coordinator, Assistant Comptroller General , Kola Oladeji during a press briefing and auction process in Lagos, on 14th October,2025 , the seizures were made within the last seven weeks following sustained surveillance and intelligence led operations. The intercepted consignments were discovered at several known smuggling flashpoints, including Ajilete, Ijoun, Ilaro, Badagry, Owode Idiroko, Eree Ado-Odo, and Obada Imeko.

Oladeji said that the products, carefully concealed and being prepared for illegal export to the Republic of Benin were recovered in multiple raids executed by the operatives of Operation Whirlwind under Zone A Command. The successful interceptions form part of the broader mandate of the special task force to tackle economic sabotage in the downstream oil sector and ensure that petroleum products remain available and affordable to Nigerians.

He also said further intelligence led investigations subsequently traced links to a retail outlet identified as Adeola Ade PLC Filling Station, located along Owode-Apa Road in Badagry, Lagos State. Upon inspection, they discovered serious infractions bordering on improper handling, storage, and potential illegal sales of PMS. In line with existing laws and regulatory procedures, the filling station was immediately sealed to forestall further diversion of national resources and to protect public safety.

During a routine perimeter sweep around the sealed station, he said operatives apprehended a male suspect later identified as Mr. Adeola Ismail. He was arrested outside the crime scene following his suspicious behaviour and preliminary links to the illegal activities traced to the sealed premises. The suspect was subsequently taken into custody for questioning and profiling. After 48 hours, upon representation by his legal counsel, he was granted administrative bail by the Legal Unit of the Federal Operations Unit (FOU Zone A), pending the conclusion of ongoing investigations.

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ACG Oladeji emphasised that the interception and enforcement action demonstrate Operation Whirlwind’s firm commitment to the Federal Government’s directive to dismantle smuggling networks, safeguard national resources, and promote transparency and accountability in petroleum product distribution.

He noted that the task force’s operations align with the policy direction of the Federal Government, which seeks to restore integrity to the downstream oil sector through effective monitoring, enforcement, and collaboration with other relevant agencies.

The Whirlwind Coordinator commended the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), under the leadership of Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for the strong institutional backing and support provided to the operation, as well as the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi and his management team for their strategic leadership and guidance.

He also expressed appreciation to the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), field officers, and patriotic Nigerians who continue to supply credible intelligence that enhances the fight against economic sabotage.

Oladeji reaffirmed that the Customs led operation will sustain its surveillance efforts, deepen inter-agency cooperation, and promote public enlightenment on the dangers of smuggling and diversion of petroleum products. He urged Nigerians to support the campaign by reporting suspicious activities to relevant authorities.

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