The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted 1,980 jerrycans of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), popularly known as petrol, valued at ₦80.4 million, allegedly destined for smuggling into the Republic of Benin.
The seizure, carried out by Operation Whirlwind a special task force of the service took place across several smuggling flashpoints in Lagos and Ogun states over the past seven weeks.
Addressing journalists in Ikeja, Lagos, on Tuesday, the National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs Kola Oladeji, said the operation formed part of ongoing efforts to check the illegal export of petroleum products and other acts of economic sabotage.
According to him, the intercepted consignments were seized at Ajilete, Ijoun, Haro, Badagry, Owode Idiroko, Eree Ado-Odo, and Obada Imeko — all known smuggling corridors along the Nigeria–Benin border. Seven vehicles used to convey the products were also impounded.
“The operatives, acting on credible intelligence, successfully intercepted a total of 1,980 jerrycans of PMS, equivalent to 49,500 litres, at different smuggling flashpoints across Lagos and Ogun states.
The total duty-paid value of the seized petroleum products and vehicles stands at ₦80.4 million,” Oladeji said.
He disclosed that further operations led to the discovery of infractions at a retail outlet along Owode-Apa Road in Badagry, where the handling and storage of petroleum products violated existing regulations.
The station, he said, was sealed to prevent further economic sabotage and ensure public safety.
Oladeji explained that during a perimeter sweep of the area, operatives arrested a man for suspicious conduct.
The suspect, he clarified, was picked up outside the premises and later granted administrative bail after eight hours in custody and representation by his lawyer.
He reaffirmed that Operation Whirlwind was created to support the Federal Government’s efforts to ensure transparency and accountability in the downstream petroleum sector, while safeguarding national resources.
The task force, he added, works closely with the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), and other agencies.
“Smuggling of fuel not only deprives the government of vital revenue but also disrupts domestic supply, creating artificial shortages and price instability,” Oladeji warned.
He urged Nigerians to assist Customs with actionable intelligence to help dismantle smuggling networks and protect the nation’s economy.
“As we move forward, we remain resolute in strengthening inter-agency cooperation, expanding operational coverage, and promoting public awareness on the dangers of smuggling and resource diversion,” he added.