ZAINAB JUNAID
As part of the determination and continuous effort to get rid of illegal exportation of Petroleum products to neighbouring countries, the Nigeria Customs Service, Operation Whirlwind has again seized 18,750litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) in a three day operation in Zone A.
Speaking while briefing journalists in Lagos on Friday, the National Coordinator of the task force team, Comptroller HK Ejibunu, said the tactical team of Zone A axis hit hard on the smugglers by recovering 750 Kegs of 25litres each, amounting to 18,750 litres in the three day operation.
He disclosed that all the seizures are not without means of conveyance as it has 9 means of conveyance and is valued at N13.2million.
According to him,“The successes recorded so far is a clear manifestation of the determination and resilience of the officers to achieve the goal set before them.
“All these seizures would have been smuggled out of the country if unchecked. Recall that within two weeks after inauguration of the team, the Comptroller General did a press conference in Adamawa state during which he showcased an interception of a combined total of 280,135 liters of fuel cutting across the four NCS zones by the Operation Whirlwind team, worth more than N196.5 Million.
“Also, shortly after the CGC’s Press Conference in Adamawa, there was another interception of 26,950 litres PMS at Ogun axis of Zone ‘A’ valued at N19Million. It was showcased by me in a press conference at Abeokuta on the 13th of June, 2024. In less than two weeks, still in Ogun state axis, 21,810 liters of PMS were intercepted and showcased on the 24th of June, 2024, worth N17.5Million” he added.
Despite several attempt by perpetrators to Smuggled out the product to neighbouring countries, the special team is Bent not to relent it’s effort as the National Coordinator advised malefactors to have a rethink and engaged in legitimate business.
He said the Service will go after them as economic Saboteurs and if caught will be made to face the wrath of law.
Comptroller Ejibunu further emphasized on the motives behind the team’s formation saying, “The team was created to ensure that Nigerians enjoy the full benefits of fuel price deregulation in line with the vision of president Bola Ahmed Tinubu; Defend the National Currency and reduce pressures that may be attributed to the activities of smugglers; Identify, dismantle and disrupt cartels of smugglers operating within the ecosystem and Raise awareness of the local communities and solicit their support to achieve these objectives”.
“Empowered by the new Customs Act 2023 and guided by credible intelligence, the operation targets illegal exportation, particularly of petroleum products, ensuring availability within the country and conserving Government resources. The Operation covers all NCS Zones {A-D}, involving carefully selected officers trained and equipped to handle the task with strict adherence to professionalism,” he added.
He equally appreciated the CGC’s commitment to reinvigorating the success of the team by partnering with relevant agencies in the oil and gas sector such as Nigeria National Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA)and Office of the National Security Adviser ONSA to monitor the chain of supply and minimize diversion of the products.
“Beside robust synergies with relevant agencies, CGC has not only increased the strength of the team, he has equally provided the necessary tools for the officers. The team is on ground and fully prepared for the criminals,” he maintained.
