Operatives of Operation Whirlwind of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) have intercepted 28,300 litres of petrol from suspected smugglers in Lagos and Ogun states.

The products were about being smuggled into the Benin Republic through the Seme and Idi-Iroko land borders.

The products stored in several plastic jerry-cans are valued at about N35.8 million.

The Comptroller General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, who made this revelation in Lagos described Seme and Idi-Iroko borders as high-risk corridors for cross-border smuggling activities.

“Following intelligence-driven operations between January 11 and February 23, 2025, our vigilant officers under the Operation whirlwind, have successfully intercepted and seized a total of 28,300 liters of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) being diverted through various concealment methods and smuggling techniques.

“The Duty Paid Value (DPV) of these seizures amounts to 35.8 million.”

These tactical operations yielded the following seizures: 1,132 Jerry Cans of 25 liters each, totaling 28,300 litres.

“Three vehicles used as means of conveyance, including: One Toyota Camry with Chassis No. JTDAT1237101922C7. One Volkswagen with Registration No. LAGOS-AAA-928FY and Chassis No. WVW222312LE114785 and One Toyota Camry with Chassis No. 4T1BG22KXXU582542

“Our comprehensive analysis of the pattern of seizures across the Lagos/Ogun axis reveals significant insights into the dynamic smuggling tactics and dominant routes being exploited by these economic saboteurs. The seizures were strategically executed at identified smuggling corridors including Badagry-Seme Corridor.

“Accounting for approximately 35% of total seizures, this remains the primary smuggling route with multiple interceptions recorded along Badagry-Seme Road and Badagry waterside,” he said.