Nigeria Customs Intercepts N14.4 Million Worth of Smuggled Petrol in Cross River State
The Nigeria Customs Service has made a significant seizure of 14,375 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, with an estimated value of N14.4 million. This operation comes at a time when the nation is grappling with a hike in pump prices for petroleum products across the country.
Operation Whirlwind Uncovers Smuggling Ring
Deputy Comptroller Lucky Aliyu, in an official statement, revealed that the seizure was carried out by Operation Whirlwind, a specialized task force within the Customs Service. The smuggled petrol was intercepted in Calabar, Cross River State, and was en route to Cameroon. The Duty Paid Value (DPV) of the confiscated PMS is precisely N14,375,000.
Aliyu emphasized that this latest operation has exposed an unprecedented volume of questionable cross-border petroleum smuggling activities. Over the past three weeks, the unit has successfully cracked down on 235 jerry-cans, each containing 25 litres, and 40 drums, each holding 200 litres, of premium motor spirit. This amounts to a total volume of 14,375 litres.
Economic and Security Implications of Petroleum Smuggling
Deputy Comptroller Aliyu provided detailed insights into the methods used to apprehend the smugglers. "My men hunted down 14,375 litres of PMS through sustained surveillance and strategic interdictions across identified flashpoints along Ikang, Bakasi, Ikom, and Ikot Idareka routes," he stated.
He further elaborated on the severe consequences of petroleum smuggling, stating, "Let me state clearly, petroleum smuggling is not a victimless crime. It undermines the nation’s economy, deprives the government of critical revenue, distorts the domestic supply chain, and creates artificial scarcity that brings hardship to ordinary Nigerians."
Aliyu also highlighted the broader security threats, noting, "Smuggling also empowers criminal networks that threaten national security and economic stability." The total DPV of the seized petroleum products, which would have otherwise been lost to the federal government, underscores the financial impact of such illicit activities.
Transparent Disposal of Seized Goods
In accordance with legal provisions and principles of transparency, accountability, and due process, the seized 14,375 litres of PMS were disposed of through public auctions. This measure ensures that the process is open and fair, preventing any potential misuse of the confiscated items.
The Nigeria Customs Service continues to intensify its efforts to combat smuggling, particularly of petroleum products, to safeguard the nation's economic interests and ensure the stability of the domestic market. This seizure serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges and the commitment of law enforcement agencies to address them effectively.
