Smuggled Petrol Worth N36.9m Seized in Adamawa - Nigeria Customs

In a significant victory against smuggling activities, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced a major interception of smuggled Petroleum Motor Spirit (PMS) valued at N36.9 million in Duty Paid Value (DPV). This substantial seizure occurred along the Nigeria-Cameroon border lines over a span of six weeks. The announcement was made by the Command’s Comptroller, Garba Bashir, during a news conference on anti-smuggling activities held in Yola.

Comptroller Garba Bashir attributed this notable success to the unwavering backing and encouragement from the NCS Management under the leadership of Bashir Adeniyi. The diligent efforts of the Adamawa and Taraba Area Commands have played a crucial role in this achievement.

“The seized goods include 43,935 Litres of PMS packed in 1,071×25 L jerry cans and 85 x 200L drums,” Bashir revealed. “Additionally, the items confiscated during this operation include one used tricycle, one used motorcycle, and two used vehicles, one of which had a hidden compartment used for concealing the smuggled PMS.”

Despite the removal of the PMS subsidy, smuggling from Nigeria into neighboring countries remains rampant due to the strong demand for fuel. Bashir explained that this demand has created a lucrative market for illegal exports, driven by individuals looking to exploit the situation for personal gain. “These economic saboteurs are prepared to do whatever it takes to maintain their hold on this illicit trade,” he stated.

To combat these challenges, the Adamawa/Taraba Area Command has been diligently reviewing and strengthening its measures to tackle smuggling effectively. Bashir emphasized that the NCS is committed to countering every move made by smugglers and will not relent until smuggling activities are brought to a standstill in Adamawa and Taraba states.

“Our mission is clear: we will not allow these illegal activities to continue unchecked,” Bashir declared. “The fight against smuggling is not just about enforcing the law; it’s about protecting our economy and ensuring the well-being of our citizens.”

Bashir also called on the public to support the NCS in its efforts by reporting any suspicious activities related to smuggling. “Together, we can combat smuggling and promote economic growth,” he urged. “This is a collective effort, and we need the cooperation of everyone to achieve our goals.”

The continuous efforts of the Nigeria Customs Service highlight the importance of vigilance and cooperation in tackling the issue of smuggling. By intercepting these illegal activities, the NCS not only safeguards the economy but also ensures that resources meant for national development are not diverted for personal gain. The seizure of such a significant quantity of PMS underscores the scale of the challenge faced by the authorities and the need for ongoing vigilance and proactive measures.

The NCS’s commitment to this cause is evident in their relentless pursuit of smugglers and their dedication to implementing robust measures to prevent illegal activities. The recent seizures serve as a strong message to those involved in smuggling that their actions will not go unnoticed and will be met with decisive action.