NEVER SAY DIE: MEN OF OPERATION WHIRLWIND SWOOP ON PETROLEUM SMUGGLERS; INTERCEPT N43.7 MILLION PMS IN NIGER/KWARA AXIS
No less than 43,750 litres of premium motor spirit (PMS) worth more than N43, 750, 000 have been intercepted by the Operation Whirlwind in Niger/Kwara axis.
The National Co-ordinator of the Team, Deputy Comptroller Abubakar Aliyu disclosed to newsmen today at a news conference for the auctioning of the product.
As the core mandate of Operation Whirlwind to curb the diversion and smuggling of petroleum products, our operatives, based on credible intelligence, successfully intercepted another consignment of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) at Kwara axis and its environs.
This operation, executed with precision and diligence, resulted in the seizure of 1,510 Jerry-cans of 25 litres each of PMS and 30 Drums of 200litres each of PMS, yielding a total volume of 43,750litres, with an estimated Duty Paid Value (DPV) of Forty Three Million, Seven Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira Only (43,750,000).
These seizures were carried out across several strategic flashpoints, notably Kaima Axis, Shiya, Kenu, Boriya, Luma, Bokuru-Baruten, Ilesha-Baruba, Taberu, and Salla-Gwanara of Kwara Axis.
According to him, the successful interception of this seized consignment underscores our resolute dedication to upholding the laws and policies designed to safeguard Nigeria’s strategic resources and ensure they are managed in a manner that serves the collective interest of all citizens. It is important to emphasize that the smuggling of petroleum products constitutes a serious act of economic sabotage. Beyond depriving the nation of critical revenue, it distorts the supply chain, leading to scarcity and inflated costs that unfairly burden honest Nigerians. Moreover, this unlawful activity strengthens organized criminal networks, weakens the integrity of our borders, and poses a broader threat to national security.
He deposed that it is pertinent to acknowledge the pivotal role of the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) in providing strategic intelligence direction and comprehensive policy support, under the leadership of Mallam Nuhu Ribadu mni, for his unwavering commitment to tackling Nigeria’s security challenges has been commendable, with his leadership playing a crucial role in promoting trust, collaboration, and synergy among all relevant stakeholders.
Equally commendable is the partnership with the NMDPRA, whose technical expertise and regulatory framework have ensured that our actions align with best practices while addressing the systemic challenges within the petroleum supply chain.
In addition, that they extended their profound gratitude to the Comptroller-General of Customs, and his entire management team for their forward-thinking leadership and steadfast support. Their strategic direction and commitment have been instrumental in positioning Operation Whirlwind to record tangible and impactful successes.
He said these achievements re-affirms their collective resolve to combat smuggling and illicit trade, which threaten the social and economic well-being of our great nation. They also serve as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and unity in the face of complex challenges.
He also commends the gallant officers and personnel of Operation Whirlwind, as well as their collaborating partner agencies. Their discipline, professionalism, alertness, and tireless dedication have been central to this successful interception and remain vital in countering the activities of smugglers and other economic saboteurs.
He stressed, “Let this serve as a clear and unequivocal warning to all individuals involved in nefarious activities of illegal smuggling of petroleum products; the era of impunity has come to an end. Operation Whirlwind is resolute, proactive, and firmly driven by intelligence in its operations. We will continue to identify, pursue, intercept, and dismantle smuggling networks wherever they may exist.”
They also appeal to the general public, particularly those residing in border communities, to sustain their cooperation with security agencies by providing credible and real time information. The fight against smuggling is a collective responsibility, and your support remains indispensable in protecting the nation’s economic stability.
He said transparency and accountability remain at the core of their operational framework. This public auction exercise reflects their unwavering commitment to openness and the prudent management of seized petroleum products. All stakeholders and participants are therefore expected to comply fully with the established guidelines governing the process.
“Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, today’s occasion once again underscores the Federal Government’s firm resolve to safeguard Nigeria’s petroleum resources and to ensure that they are utilized in a manner that benefits all Nigerians.”15.
As they proceed with this exercise, he reassured the public that Operation Whirlwind will continue to enhance its surveillance capabilities, strengthen intelligence gathering, and intensify enforcement actions across all operational fronts. Together, they will bring an end to petroleum smuggling and preserve the integrity of our national economy.