No less than 14, 375 litres of premium motor spirit (PMS) popularly called petrol have been intercepted in the Cross River State capital, Calabar by men and officers of Operation Whirlwind, Nigeria Customs Service (NCS).
The interception in Calabar which is part of Zone C in Operation Whirlwind is coming on the heels of similar seizures in Lagos axis recently.
The National Co-ordinator, Operation Whirlwind, Deputy Comptroller Lucky Aliyu revealed this while showcasing the seizures in the Calabar recently to newsmen and stakeholders including officials of the midstream and downstream petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).
Aliyu who is known for his stern approach to the discharge of his mandate also revealed that within the past several weeks, acting on credible and actionable intelligence, members of Operation Whirlwind successfully dismantled a co-ordinated network involved in the illegal exportation of PMS to neighbouring Cameroon.
He also disclosed that during the operation, the operatives intercepted not less than 235 jerry-cans of 25 litres each and 40 drums (200 litres each) of PMS, amounting to a total volume of 14,375 litres.
According to the Customs Chief, this was achieved through sustained surveillance and strategic interdictions across identified flashpoints including Ikang, Bakassi, Ikom and Ikot-Idareka. The total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of the seized petroleum products stands at ₦14,375,000. The product we are auctioning today was intercepted through credible intelligence and diligent enforcement actions by officers of Operation Whirlwind and other collaborating security agencies. These products were being diverted for illegal export in clear violation of Nigeria’s laws governing the distribution and movement of petroleum products.
Aliyu also gave reasons why his team will not relent in the discharge of its mandate across the country.
His words: “Let me state clearly that petroleum smuggling is not a victimless crime. It undermines the national economy, deprives government of critical revenue, distorts the domestic supply chain, and creates artificial scarcity that brings hardship to ordinary Nigerians. Smuggling also empowers criminal networks that threaten national security and economic stability”.
On what will happened to the seizures, he said: “In line with the provisions of the law and in keeping with the principles of transparency, accountability, and due process, the seized 14,375 litres of PMS are being disposed of through this public auction. The objective is to ensure that the product is returned into the legitimate domestic supply chain for the benefit of the public rather than allowing it to be re-diverted into illegal channels.
“This public auction is therefore conducted in the presence of relevant government agencies, security organizations, civil society representatives, and the media to guarantee openness and credibility in the disposal process”.
He gave kudos to the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Dr. Bashir Adewale Adeniyi for backing Operation Whirlwind since its establishment.
He reiterated the NCS boss determination to deliver on the provisions of the NCS Act 2023.
“The Nigeria Customs Service remains resolute in its constitutional mandate to safeguard Nigeria’s economy, secure critical national assets, and combat all forms of smuggling and economic sabotage. In recent months, we have significantly intensified surveillance, intelligence gathering, and enforcement operations across strategic corridors notorious for the illegal diversion and cross-border smuggling of petroleum products”, he added.
Maritime Bits checks revealed that Operation Whirlwind is a special anti–petroleum smuggling initiative designed to combat the illicit diversion of petroleum products across Nigeria’s borders.
The operation was established to safeguard the nation’s economic interests, protect national energy security, and ensure that petroleum products meant for domestic consumption are not illegally smuggled out of the country.
According to the National Co-ordinator, the NCS acknowledged the strategic coordination provided by the Office of the National Security Adviser under the leadership of Mallam Nuhu Ribadu. His guidance continues to strengthen national security collaboration and operational synergy across agencies. We also recognize and commend NMDPRA for its technical expertise and robust regulatory oversight which ensure that enforcement actions align with best practices while addressing systemic vulnerabilities in the distribution framework.
While expressing deep appreciation to the CGC and his management team for their visionary leadership and steadfast operational support which have empowered Operation Whirlwind to deliver measurable results, Aliyu also commended the gallant officers and men of Operation Whirlwind and partner agencies whose dedication, professionalism, and vigilance made the interception possible.
“Their relentless commitment continues to frustrate the activities of smugglers and economic saboteurs who seek to exploit our national resources for personal gain”, he said.
He also sounded a clear warning to those who are still involved in the illegal smuggling of petroleum products.
Aliyu’s words: “The era of impunity is over. Operation Whirlwind remains resolute, proactive, and intelligence-driven in its operations. We will continue to track, intercept, and dismantle smuggling networks wherever they operate. To members of the public, particularly residents within border communities, we urge you to continue cooperating with security agencies by providing timely and credible information. The fight against smuggling is a collective responsibility, and your support is vital in protecting the nation’s economic interests”.
He maintained that transparency remains a key pillar of our operations just as he pointed out that the auction exercise demonstrates NCS commitment to accountability and responsible management of seized petroleum products.
“All participants in this auction are expected to comply strictly with the procedures guiding the exercise. Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, today’s event sends a strong message that the Federal Government remains committed to protecting Nigeria’s petroleum resources and ensuring that they are used for the benefit of the Nigerian people”, he added.
