The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has launched Operation Whirlwind Zone C, resulting in the seizure of 6,200 liters of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) over the past month in a bid to combat illegal fuel trade.
Initiated by the Comptroller General of Customs (CGC), BA Adeniyi, MFR, PSC(+), in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), the operation was established in May 2024 to tackle fuel smuggling issues.
National Coordinator Compt. HC Ejibunu announced on Wednesday that the operation has significantly curbed the illegal smuggling of PMS across the country.
He stated, “This initiative has helped maintain local fuel supplies while addressing economic sabotage associated with fuel smuggling.”
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Since its launch, the operation has seized a total of 466,000 liters of PMS, valued at approximately ₦380 million.
Despite challenges such as difficult terrain and flooding, the unit continues to effectively carry out its mandate in the South-South region.
The NCS emphasized that these efforts have been instrumental in stabilizing fuel prices nationwide and ensuring that allocated petroleum products reach their intended destinations.
In line with the CGC’s three mandates Consolidation, Collaboration, and Innovation, he expressed gratitude to other agencies and stakeholders for their support, underscoring the importance of teamwork for success.
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