Customs Busts Smuggling Ring in Kwara State
In a major victory against smuggling operations, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) announced the interception of a staggering 800 jerry cans of 25 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) in Kwara State. This included a massive 33,000 liters truckload valued at N53 million. The revelation was made by the Comptroller General of Customs Service, Bashir Adeniyi, during a recent visit to the command in Ilorin, Kwara State. The seizures took place over a period from mid-January to February 11, 2025, and marked a significant milestone in the ongoing crackdown on smugglers across the country.
Strategic Seizures at Kwara Borders
The illicit fuel shipments were intercepted at various points, including Baruten, Kaiama forest, Ilesha-Baruba, and Gure border towns. Adeniyi highlighted the Kwara border with Benin Republic as a crucial axis for smuggling activities, necessitating increased vigilance from senior officers. He emphasized the importance of the customs operation, codenamed “Operation Whirlwind,” which has yielded substantial results in curbing illegal activities.
Operation Whirlwind Triumphs
Under Operation Whirlwind, the NCS successfully sealed 12 retail outlets involved in smuggling, preventing the illegal transportation of 460,000 liters of PMS to neighboring countries. Additionally, the authorities confiscated 23 vehicles used for conveying contraband and seized over 8,000 kegs of PMS. The intensified efforts led to the arrest of 7 suspects, while 3 marketers are currently undergoing prosecution for regulatory offenses related to smuggling activities.
Adeniyi acknowledged the evolving tactics of smugglers, requiring a more sophisticated approach to combat the persistent challenge of petroleum smuggling that threatens the nation’s economy. He lamented the detrimental impact of fuel subsidy removal, which paradoxically fueled a surge in sophisticated cross-border smuggling operations. Despite the Nigerian fuel prices being below N1,000, disparities persist when compared to neighboring countries like Benin Republic and Cameroon where prices soar to approximately N1,700 and N2,000 respectively in local currency.
The Battle Against Smuggling Continues
The lucrative arbitrage economy driving smuggling operations poses a formidable obstacle to enforcement agencies, despite collaborative efforts to stem the tide. Adeniyi issued a stern warning to smugglers, urging them to desist from illegal activities or face severe consequences under the law. In her remarks, Comptroller Faith Ojeifo of the NCS Kwara Area Command reiterated the commitment to eradicating smuggling within the state. She called upon residents of border communities to provide valuable intelligence that could aid in dismantling smuggling networks and safeguarding the nation’s interests.
As the NCS intensifies its crackdown on smuggling rings, the recent successes in Kwara State underscore the challenges and victories in the ongoing battle against illicit activities. The interception of 800 gallons of PMS represents a significant blow to rogue elements seeking to circumvent regulations and jeopardize the nation’s economic stability. With unwavering determination and strategic operations, the customs authorities remain vigilant in safeguarding the borders and upholding the rule of law.
