The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has auctioned 22,175 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) seized by Operation Whirlwind along the Lagos-Ogun axis. The auction, which took place at the Customs Training College in Ikeja, Lagos, had a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N32.1 million. The National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, Deputy Comptroller Abubakar Aliyu, announced the auction on Monday in Lagos.
According to Deputy Comptroller Aliyu, the seizures were made at identified flashpoints, including Imeko, Ilara, Ilaro, Idiroko, and Seme-Badagry, following credible and actionable intelligence. Operatives intercepted 887 jerry cans of 25 litres each, totalling 22,175 litres, along with five means of conveyance used for smuggling. The DPV of the seized petrol and means of conveyance stood at N32.1 million.
Deputy Comptroller Aliyu stated that Operation Whirlwind was a targeted anti-smuggling initiative aimed at curbing the illegal movement, diversion, and cross-border smuggling of petroleum products to neighbouring countries. The operation was intelligence-driven and targeted, with the NCS intensifying surveillance, strengthening intelligence gathering, and enhancing enforcement along major routes prone to the illegal diversion of petroleum products.
The auction demonstrated the NCS's commitment to transparency, accountability, and prudent management of seized petroleum products in line with extant laws and approved procedures. Aliyu urged participants and stakeholders to adhere strictly to established auction guidelines to ensure a fair, orderly, and transparent exercise. He commended the Comptroller-General and NCS management for their strategic direction and support for the objectives of Operation Whirlwind.
Deputy Comptroller Aliyu appreciated the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) for their continued collaboration. He lauded officers and men of Operation Whirlwind Zone A for their diligence, professionalism, and commitment to duty. Aliyu warned those engaged in illegal smuggling and diversion that Operation Whirlwind remained resolute and intelligence-driven in dismantling smuggling networks.
The Acting Commandant, Customs Training College, Ikeja, Deputy Comptroller Patience Ita, said the Comptroller-General had zero tolerance for the smuggling of petroleum products and other goods. Ita, who hosted the public auction, said the exercise should serve as a warning to smugglers, noting that even small-scale smuggling of petroleum products could affect the national economy.
The Nigeria Customs Service's efforts to curb smuggling and protect Nigeria's economic interests are ongoing. The service aims to strengthen national energy security and ensure that products meant for domestic consumption are not diverted. The auction of seized petrol is part of the NCS's efforts to prevent the illegal diversion of petroleum products and promote transparency and accountability in the management of seized goods.
Key points
- The Nigeria Customs Service auctions 22,175 litres of seized petrol worth N32.1m in Lagos.
- Operation Whirlwind is a targeted anti-smuggling initiative aimed at curbing the illegal movement of petroleum products.
- The auction demonstrates the NCS's commitment to transparency and accountability in the management of seized petroleum products.
