The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted a large quantity of smuggled petrol in Adamawa and Taraba states. A total of 199,495 litres of fuel, hidden in various containers and vehicles, were seized by the NCS’s anti-smuggling unit, Operation Whirlwind. This fuel was on its way to neighbouring countries when it was caught.

This seizure is part of a series of operations by the NCS to prevent fuel smuggling across the country’s borders. The confiscated petrol was transported using multiple concealment methods, including fuel tankers, jerry cans, and drums. The breakdown of the seizure includes four fuel tankers with 97,000 litres, 1,363 jerry cans (25 litres each) containing 34,075 litres, and 311 drums (220 litres each) holding 68,420 litres of petrol.

At a news briefing in Yola, NCS Controller Bashir Adeniyi explained that intelligence-led operations across the Zone D area led to the confiscation of this illegal fuel. He said the operation was specifically aimed at high-risk areas known for smuggling activities. Adeniyi added that the goal of Operation Whirlwind is to prevent smuggling and ensure that petrol meant for local use stays within Nigeria, contributing to the stability of fuel production and consumption in the country.

With this seizure, the NCS continues to show its commitment to tackling smuggling and ensuring that essential resources like fuel are used responsibly within Nigeria.