Emmanuel OchayiThe Nigeria Customs Service, Federal Operations Unit, Zone D, has announced the interception of 17,580 litres of premium motor spirit (PMS) valued at N12.7 million.
This operation took place between April and May 2024, focusing on the Mubi and Yola axis of Adamawa State.
Odaudu Salefu, the Customs Area Comptroller in charge of the command, revealed these details in a recent statement. He attributed the successful interception to robust information gathering and credible intelligence sharing by other customs units, including the Customs Intelligence Unit and customs police.
Giving a detailed breakdown of the seized items, Salefu stated, “I am glad to inform you that the unit’s concerted efforts in suppressing smuggling activities have continued to yield good results. The operatives of the unit, apart from blocking and suppressing smuggling within the zone, have made seizures of the following: 678 jerrycans of PMS and two drums of PMS (2× 250 litres), totaling 17,580 litres, with a duty paid value (DPV) of N12,750,422.40. The cumulative DPV, including the means of conveyance, amounted to N14.2 million.”
Salefu emphasized that these achievements were the result of effective information gathering and intelligence sharing. “The seizures showcased here today were achieved as a result of robust information gathering and credible intelligence sharing by other customs units, including the Customs Intelligence Unit, customs police, and resilient patrol of FOU Zone D.”
Highlighting the legal framework supporting their actions, Salefu noted, “Our operatives’ actions are by all extant laws as enshrined in the NCS Act 2023 as amended, particularly sections 245 (provision as to detention, seizure, and condemnation of goods) and sections 226 (power to patrol free).”
He further warned that the unit would continue its efforts to suppress smuggling activities and urged Nigerians to provide credible information to assist in these efforts. “Smugglers are unscrupulous individuals who are determined to cripple our nation’s economy,” he said.
FOU Zone D, headquartered in Bauchi, covers nine states: Bauchi, Borno, Yobe, Adamawa, Taraba, Gombe, Plateau, Benue, and Nasarawa. The unit is tasked with enforcing customs laws, implementing government fiscal policies, and suppressing smuggling within its jurisdiction.
This seizure is part of a broader effort by the Nigeria Customs Service to combat smuggling and ensure compliance with national regulations. The commitment and resilience of the officers involved play a crucial role in maintaining economic stability and security within the region.
Emmanuel Ochayi is a journalist. He is a graduate of the University of Lagos, School of first choice and the nations pride. Emmanuel is keen on exploring writing angles in different areas, including Business, climate change, politics, Education, and others.
