The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted 1,149 jerrycans of smuggled Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) along the Gembu-Cameroon border in Taraba State. The seizure was made through the Dorofi and Kan Iyaka axis as part of an ongoing effort to curb fuel smuggling across Nigeria’s borders.
The Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, made this announcement in Jalingo, the state capital, during an event where the seized petrol was auctioned to the public. He revealed that the operation, named ‘Operation Whirl Wind,’ was conducted between March 8 and 9, 2025, based on intelligence reports.
Adeniyi stated that the operation was carried out in collaboration with other agencies, including the Office of the National Security Adviser and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority.
He noted, “Our intelligence-led operations have disrupted an emerging smuggling corridor along the Gembu-Dorofi-Kan Iyaka-Cameroon border. We remain committed to ensuring that Nigeria’s subsidized fuel does not end up in neighboring countries at the expense of our economy.”
According to him, the intercepted fuel, stored in 30-liter jerrycans, amounted to a total of 34,470 liters. Additionally, a special-purpose vehicle worth N4 million used in the smuggling attempt was also seized. The total duty-paid value of the confiscated items was estimated at N37,780,600.
“The rough landscape and the porous nature of the border make it easier for smugglers to operate. However, we are working towards deploying technology to enhance real-time intelligence and surveillance, which will improve our ability to track and intercept illegal activities,” he said.
“We urge members of the public to collaborate with us and other security agencies. Smuggling is an economic crime, and tackling it requires collective effort. Intelligence gathering and inter-agency collaboration are key to sustaining our fight against this menace,” he stated.
