Operatives of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) have intercepted a large consignment of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), popularly known as petrol, valued at N80.4 million, allegedly being smuggled out of the country to Benin Republic.
The operation, carried out by officers of the Federal Operations Unit, Zone A, took place along the Seme and Badagry axis in Lagos State a notorious route for cross-border fuel smuggling.
Speaking to journalists in Lagos on Tuesday, the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Hussein Ejibunu, said the interception followed credible intelligence and sustained surveillance by his men. He revealed that the smugglers had attempted to conceal the fuel in jerrycans and drums loaded onto several trucks disguised as carrying agricultural produce.
“Through our proactive intelligence and coordinated patrols, we were able to intercept the petroleum products before they crossed the border. The seized fuel has a duty-paid value of N80,475,000,” Ejibunu stated.
He further noted that the persistent smuggling of subsidized fuel out of Nigeria contributes significantly to the scarcity and artificial price hikes experienced within the country.
Ejibunu warned smugglers to desist from such economic sabotage, stressing that the service remains committed to enforcing government policies and protecting Nigeria’s economic interests.
The seized items, he added, are currently in Customs custody pending further investigation, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend the masterminds behind the operation.
“The Nigeria Customs Service will not relent in ensuring that the nation’s resources are not diverted to enrich criminal elements or neighboring countries at the expense of Nigerians,” he said.
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