The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has auctioned seized Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, in Yola, Adamawa State.
This was revealed by the NCS Comptroller General, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, during a press briefing in the state.
Adeniyi, who was represented by the NCS Deputy Comptroller General, Olaniyi Olajugun, announced that the seized petrol would be auctioned immediately at two petrol stations in Yola, at a rate of ₦630 per litre.
He emphasized that the seizures highlight the ongoing challenge of fuel smuggling and the need for continued vigilance and enforcement efforts.
Adeniyi also reported that under NCS Operation Whirlwind, significant progress had been made in combating fuel smuggling, including the seizure of two lorries, 1,046 kegs of PMS, and 12 drums of petroleum products.
“Our ongoing operations have recorded substantial seizures in various locations, including the North-West borders in the Sokoto-Kebbi axis, the South-West borders around the Seme-Badagry and Idiroko axis, and the southern borders in Cross River and Akwa Ibom states,” he said.
“I am pleased to announce that in this latest phase of Operation Whirlwind, we have seized two lorries carrying smuggled petroleum products, 1,046 kegs filled with PMS, and 12 drums of petroleum products. Additionally, one suspect has been apprehended in connection with these smuggling activities.”’
The customs boss warned those engaged in illicit activities, saying “The full force of the law will be brought to bear on anyone caught smuggling our nation’s resources.”
He also urged all Nigerians, particularly residents of Adamawa and other border states, to support the operation.
“Your vigilance and cooperation are crucial in our collective efforts to safeguard our nation’s resources and ensure that the benefits of fuel price deregulation are fully realised by all Nigerians,” he added.