Operatives of the Nigeria Customs Service have dismantled a fuel smuggling network operating along the South-West border corridor, as part of ongoing efforts to curb the illegal export of Premium Motor Spirit, popularly known as petrol.
The development was disclosed during a press briefing held at the Customs Training College in Ikeja on Tuesday March 31, 2026 and posted on the Official X handle of the Nigeria Customs Service.
Speaking at the briefing, the National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, Deputy Comptroller of Customs Abubakar Aliyu, said the operation led to the interception of 14,875 litres of PMS.
“Over the past few weeks, our operatives, acting on credible intelligence, have successfully dismantled a coordinated network of smugglers engaged in the illegal export of PMS to neighbouring countries. During the exercise, a total of 544 jerrycans, each containing 24 litres, were seized, amounting to 14,875 litres,” he said.
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Aliyu explained that the interceptions were made across several strategic locations, including Imeko, Ilara, Ilaro, Idiroko, and the Seme-Badagry axis. He added that the total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of the seized product stands at ₦14,875,000.
Customs Operation Whirlwind Dismantles Southwest Fuel Smuggling Ring, Auctions Seized PMS
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Operation Whirlwind, has dismantled a coordinated criminal network involved in the illegal exportation of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) along the Southwest… pic.twitter.com/3JBc21Esmc
— NIGERIA CUSTOMS (@CustomsNG) April 1, 2026
In line with existing regulations, the seized PMS was auctioned at subsidised rates to ensure it is returned to the legitimate market and not diverted into illicit channels.
“This auction is being carried out with the participation of relevant government agencies, security personnel, and media representatives to ensure transparency, accountability, and integrity in the disposal process,” he stated.
The National Coordinator also commended the strategic guidance of the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), noting that its directives have strengthened inter-agency collaboration and enhanced operational efficiency in the fight against smuggling.
