By Omolabake Cole
Lagos, July 20, ’25 (TNZ) The Nigeria Customs Service has intercepted 35,535 litres of petrol and other goods worth ₦1.84 billion at several notorious smuggling flashpoints known for fuel diversion.
TheNewsZenith reports that the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, confirmed the development during a news briefing at the weekend in Lagos.
The news briefing focused on petroleum product that Operation Whirlwind in Zone A intercepted.
Adeniyi said the zone, acting on intelligence and a renewed mandate, intercepted 1,134 jerrycans (25/30 litres) and 33 drums of PMS totaling 35,535 litres worth ₦58.36 million
In the same token the Federal Operations Unit, Zone A Ikeja, intercepted goods valued at ₦1.78 billion.
Assistant Comptroller-General, Hussein Ejibunu, represented the CGC at the briefing.
Adeniyi said the Service made the seizures across flashpoints within Ajilete, Ijoun, Ilaro, Badagry, Owode, Eree, and Obada Imeko.
“Today, I’m pleased to announce a major breakthrough by Operation Whirlwind officers across Lagos and Ogun States.
“Over the past two to three weeks, our officers have significantly countered PMS smuggling to the Republic of Benin.
“These products, hidden and prepared for illegal export, were seized alongside six vehicles used to convey the items.
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“The total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of both the seized fuel and vehicles amounts to ₦58.36 million,” TheNewsZenith quotes the CGC as saying.
He said that the seizures highlight the efficiency and precision of Customs’ anti-smuggling operations.
Adeniyi noted that the development demonstrates the NSC’s commitment to fighting economic sabotage and protecting national energy security.
“The smuggling of PMS causes revenue losses and worsens pressures on the country’s fragile fuel supply chain.
“At a time of energy distribution challenges, we cannot allow saboteurs to endanger national interest for personal gain,” he said.
Adeniyi said these efforts reflect the service’s dedication to economic protection, asset security, and anti-smuggling enforcement.
He added that surveillance and enforcement have been intensified in smuggling-prone areas across the country.
The CGC called on citizens, especially in border communities, to support NSC with timely and accurate intelligence on smuggling activities.
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Meanwhile, Adeniyi also announced that the Federal Operations Unit, Zone A Ikeja, intercepted goods valued at ₦1.78 billion between June 3 and July 18.
According to him, NSC recovered ₦95.59 million in underpaid duties within the same period.
He gave a breakdown of the major seizures during the period under review such as: 3,500 bags of rice (50kg) each) equivalent to six trailer loads and 304 kilogrammes of Cannabis Sativa (Indian Hemp).
“Other seizure intercepted are 7,900 liters of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) in 316 jerry cans of 25 liters each, 54 bags and 20 bales of used clothing.
“The service also intercepted 41 sacks and bags of used footwear, 14 units of used (Tokunbo) vehicles, 148 pieces of used tyres.
“It also seized 42 used gas cylinders, 31 units of air conditioning systems, and 95 cartons of frozen poultry products among others,” TheNewsZenith said.
The Service arrested nine suspects in connection with the seizures. Six of the suspects received administrative bail while three others were handed to security agencies.
Adeniyi commended Operation Whirlwind, led by ACG Ejibunu, and FOU Zone A Comptroller Mohammad Shau’aib, for their exemplary service.
He said beyond enforcement, the Unit ensures compliance with import and export laws. (TNZ)
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