The Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, has vowed to clampdown on cartels engaging in cross border smuggling of Premium Motor Spirit, PMS, to neighbouring countries.
The national coordinator of Operation Whirlwind of the NCS, Controller H. K Ejibunu, who addressed journalists in the Cross River/Akwa Ibom/FTZ Area Command Headquarters of the Service in Calabar, warned that illegal exportation of Nigeria’s PMS to neighboring countries will no longer be tolerated.
He condemned the illegal exportation of PMS across Nigeria’s borders, noting that smugglers and other perpetrators will be duly sanctioned.
Ejibunu disclosed that the Service was poised to dismantle the network of cartels and smugglers of Premium Motor Spirit in the riverine areas of the country.
He showcased huge seizures of petroleum products, reiterating that the exercise was in continuation of efforts stop PMS smuggling.
According to him, the seizures were made at different locations across Agbaragba-Ikom, Akansoko road, Ikom-Ogoja road and other places within the zone.
Ejibunu explained that the operation was jointly coordinated by the Office of the National Security Adviser and the NCS, in synergy with the regulatory authority in the oil and gas sector.
Ejibunu confirmed the seizure of 1,065 kegs of PMS, containing twenty five liters each, which translates into 26,625 liters of PMS.
He added, “As you are all aware, the terrain here in South-South and South-East is mostly covered by riverine areas.
“Despite this challenge, we were able to record these tremendous successes. That is why it is imperative to sincerely thank the Cross River/Akwa Ibom Area Command, Federal Operating Unit Zone C and Border drill for their continuous support towards success of this Special Operation and their quick response whenever we call upon them.”