CUSTOMS HANDS OVER DIVERTED 45,000 LITERS OF PMS TO NMDPRA IN KATSINA

The Nigeria Customs Service (NSC) through Operation Whirlwind, has handed over a detained oil tanker laden with 45,000 liters of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) to the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) in Katsina State.

The truck tanker with plate number SBA 146 XA, was intercepted along the Birnin Kuka Outstation axis in Mashi Local Government Area, with the driver suspected to be diverting the PMS for smuggling purpose.

A statement by the NCS Public Relations Officer, Katsina Command, ASC Bello Isah, said the handing over of the tanker was made at the Customs House, Katsina, by the National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, Deputy Comptroller Aliyu Abubakar.

The statement, signed on behalf of the National Coordinator Operation Whirlwind, quoted Abubakar describing petroleum smuggling as a serious economic crime that undermines national energy security, deprives the government of revenue, and fuels transnational criminal activities.

The statement said Abubakar reaffirmed the Service’s “resolve to safeguard the nation’s borders by preventing the illegal diversion of petroleum products meant for domestic consumption.

“He added that the Service would continue to work closely with the NMDPRA and other security agencies through intelligence sharing, joint surveillance operations, and strict enforcement of relevant laws to dismantle smuggling networks operating within and around Katsina state.

“Deputy Comptroller Abubakar also urged border communities, petroleum marketers, transporters, filling station operators, and other stakeholders to support government efforts by complying with the law and reporting suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities.

“According to him, public cooperation remains vital to the success of the ongoing campaign against economic sabotage.

“In his remarks, the Katsina state Coordinator of the NMDPRA, Mr. Umar Muhammad, commended the Nigeria Customs Service for its commitment to protecting the nation’s economy through sustained anti-smuggling operations.

“He assured the Authority’s continued support in monitoring the movement and distribution of petroleum products, noting that stronger collaboration between both agencies would enhance regulatory compliance, curb product diversion, and ensure petroleum products reach legitimate consumers.”