The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted 29,825 litres of petrol allegedly being smuggled out of the country through Adamawa and Taraba states.
Speaking at a press briefing in Yola on Wednesday, the Customs Area Controller for Adamawa/Taraba, Garba Bashir, said the seizures were made within the last three weeks.
According to him, the petrol was packed in 1,149 jerrycans (25 litres each) and four large drums (220 litres each). He also revealed that three vehicles were confiscated, including one with a hidden compartment designed to smuggle fuel undetected.
“These consignments were clearly meant for smuggling into Cameroon. We are determined to stop such illegal activities that sabotage our economy,” Bashir said.
Other Items Seized
Aside from the petrol, Customs operatives also seized:
- 11 bales of second-hand clothes
- Eight 200-litre drums of methylene chloride (commonly known as ‘suck and die’)
- 35 jerrycans (25 litres each) of methylene chloride
The total value of the seized goods, according to Bashir, is estimated at ₦51.9 million.
Crackdown on Smuggling
Bashir reminded the public of his earlier warning that illegal fuel marketers would no longer have an easy ride.
“In our last press briefing in Yola, I promised that those engaged in economic sabotage would not have peace until they switch to legitimate business,” he reiterated.
Revenue Collection Surpasses Target
On revenue generation, Bashir disclosed that the Adamawa/Taraba Customs Command exceeded its 2024 target. The command collected ₦173.6 million, surpassing its ₦132 million target for the year.
He assured Nigerians that Customs would remain vigilant in securing the borders and preventing illegal fuel smuggling.