The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has taken strong action against fuel smuggling along the Taraba-Cameroon border. During a three-hour operation, Customs officers seized 34,470 liters of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and a heavy-duty truck used for transportation.
The operation was carried out by the Customs’ Operation Whirlwind team, focusing on smuggling activities in Gembu and Kan-Iyaka, areas known for illegal fuel transport in Sardauna Local Government Area.
During a public auction in Jalingo, the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, explained how intelligence reports led to the successful raid. Reports from the inter-agency intelligence fusion center showed unusual fuel movement in Sorofi and Kan-Iyaka between March 8 and 8, 2025.
Acting on this information, Customs teams launched coordinated operations that blocked a new smuggling route. This effort led to the seizure of:
- 1,149 Jerry cans of PMS (each 30 liters), totaling 34,470 liters
- A specialized transportation truck worth N4 million
The total value of the seized fuel and truck was estimated at N37.78 million.
Adeniyi emphasized that fuel smuggling threatens national security and economic stability. He noted that most of the seized fuel was confiscated in Gembu, the administrative center of Sardauna. Among the items taken were 180 Jerry cans and the smuggling truck, which was stopped while heading towards the Kan-Iyaka border crossing.
Fuel plays a key role in Nigeria’s economy. If smuggling continues, it could create shortages that slow down businesses and increase fuel prices. Adeniyi urged security agencies and local residents to remain alert and support anti-smuggling efforts.
The NCS has promised to continue its crackdown on smuggling networks. The agency is committed to protecting Nigeria’s fuel supply and ensuring that fuel remains available for local consumption.
By staying vigilant and working together, authorities and citizens can help stop fuel smuggling and protect the economy.
