Customs intercepts fuel worth N26 million at Niger border, vows to curb smuggling

The Niger/Kogi Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted 500 jerrycans and two drums of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) near the Agwara-Babana border in Niger State, disrupting an illegal fuel smuggling operation.Assistant Comptroller General of Customs, Mr Kehinde Ejibunu, who oversees Finance, Administration and Special Duties, revealed the development while presenting the confiscated items to journalists in Minna on Wednesday.Ejibunu attributed the success of the operation to coordinated efforts between security agencies and strong engagement with local communities and stakeholders.

“This seizure is a result of effective inter-agency collaboration and proactive dialogue with relevant community stakeholders,” he stated.He said the intercepted products—comprising 500 jerrycans of 25 litres each and two drums—were being transported in a utility vehicle and a pickup truck at different times and locations around the Babana border. The total volume seized amounted to 12,500 litres, with an estimated Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N26 million.



Although no suspects were apprehended in connection with the seizure, Ejibunu affirmed the Customs Service’s ongoing commitment to dismantling smuggling syndicates and ensuring economic saboteurs face justice.“As National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, I can confirm that despite renewed activity by terrorist elements in these border regions, we have successfully curtailed the diversion and smuggling of petroleum products into neighbouring countries,” Ejibunu said.Also speaking at the event, Mr Pascal Chibuoke, the Customs Area Comptroller for the Niger/Kogi Command, appealed for additional patrol vehicles equipped with modern communication technology to strengthen border security, especially around the volatile Babana axis, which has seen increased militant activity.

The seized PMS will be made available to the public at a subsidised rate of N10,000 per 25-litre container.The post Customs intercepts fuel worth N26 million at Niger border, vows to curb smuggling appeared first on Nigerian NewsDirect..