PETROLEUM SMUGGLERS HENCEFORTH RISK JAIL; AS D/COMPT BELLO HINTS OF INCREASED SMUGGLING DURING THE YULTIDE
Newly appointed National Co-ordinator of Operation Whirlwind, Deputy Comptroller M. Bello Esq. has indicated that petroleum smugglers and economic saboteurs henceforth risk prosecution after thorough investigations.
This legal option will be executed in collaboration with relevant authorities to serve as a deterrent to others who may wish to engage in such criminal activities.
Speaking at the handing over of a truck conveying diverted liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and public auction of several thousand litres of premium motor spirit (PMS) in Calabar today, he said their mandate goes beyond making seizures.
‘We must ensure that identified offenders are properly investigated and prosecuted. As the newly appointed National Co-ordinator of Operation Whirlwind, I assure you of my commitment to providing purposeful leadership, strengthening operational efficiency and building on achievements already recorded by this assignment.
We shall continue to pursue a more coordinated, intelligence/driven and result-oriented approach to ensure that the objectives of Operation Whirlwind are fully achieved’
Bello stated that today’s event features two important activities; the formal handing over of the LPG to the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), and the public auction of 6,125 litres of PMS.
These activities underscore the unwavering determination of the Nigeria Customs Service, through Operation Whirlwind, to enforce compliance with extant petroleum regulations, protect the nation’s economic interests and ensure that petroleum products meant for legitimate domestic consumption are not unlawfully diverted for other purposes.
He stated that the illegal diversion and smuggling of petroleum products remain serious threats to our national economy, energy security and public interest. Such activities undermine government policies, distort the legitimate petroleum supply chain, encourage economic sabotage and deprive the nation of the benefits of its natural resources.
According to him, the interception of the LPG truck being handed over today is a demonstration of their commitment to ensuring that petroleum products are transported, distributed and utilised in accordance with established regulatory guidelines. The formal handover to NMDPRA further demonstrates the importance of inter-agency cooperation in ensuring appropriate regulatory action and accountability.
The Coordinator said seizures of the 6,125 litres of the PMS were made across identified flashpoints, including Ikang Road (Bakassi), Ibaka and Mfum. The total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of the seized petroleum product is totaled at Six Million, One Hundred and Twenty-Five Thousand Naira Only (₦6,125,000).
He noted that this public auction of the 6,125 litres of intercepted PMS is being conducted in accordance with established procedures and applicable guidelines. This exercise reinforces their commitment to transparency, accountability and the responsible management of seized petroleum products, particularly those requiring prompt disposal due to their volatile nature.
He sincerely appreciated the Comptroller-General of Customs and the entire Management Team of the Nigeria Customs Service for their continued support and commitment to the objectives of Operation Whirlwind. He also commends the leadership and personnel of ONSA and NMDPRA, as well as the officers and men of Operation Whirlwind Zone C Axis, for their diligence, professionalism and commitment to duty.
As they approach the festive season, intelligence reports have indicated the possibility of increased attempts at the illegal diversion and smuggling of Premium Motor Spirit and other petroleum products. Consequently, all Commanders must heighten their operational readiness, strengthen surveillance around identified flashpoints and ensure that credible intelligence is promptly acted upon.
He reiterated that their mandate goes beyond making seizures. They must ensure that identified offenders are properly investigated and prosecuted in collaboration with the relevant authorities to serve as a deterrent to others who may wish to engage in these criminal activities..
“Together, we will remain resolute in safeguarding one of the nation’s most strategic economic assets, strengthening the integrity of the petroleum supply chain, and denying criminal networks every opportunity to undermine our collective efforts. Through sustained collaboration, vigilance, and decisive enforcement, we will ensure that economic saboteurs find no refuge anywhere within our operational environment.”