The Oyo/Osun Area Command of the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) has successfully intercepted and seized a significant quantity of Petroleum Motor Spirit (PMS) along the Ayegun axis of Oyo State.

The Command seized 94 drums, each containing 235 litres, and 44 kegs, each containing 25 litres, totalling 23,190 litres of PMS.

The Customs Area Controller of the Oyo/Osun Area Command, Dr. Ben Oramalugo disclosed that the interception was made possible through the diligent efforts of the Command’s anti-smuggling team, who acted on credible intelligence.

Dr. Oramalugo said the seized PMS, which was intended for smuggling through the border to neighbouring countries, was concealed in a manner aimed at evading detection by law enforcement agencies.

He said that the seizure was significant and underscored the unwavering commitment of the Command to combating the smuggling of petroleum products and protecting the nation’s economy.

“The illegal exportation of PMS, not only deprives the government of vital revenue but also contributes to the artificial scarcity of fuel, thereby impacting negatively on the lives of ordinary citizens.”

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Dr. Oramalugo commended the efforts of the officers involved in the operation and emphasized the Command’s readiness to intensify its anti-smuggling activities. He reiterated that the Command remains vigilant and will continue to deploy all necessary resources to curb illegal activities within its jurisdiction.

He said that the seized product would be disposed of following due process, in line with the laws and regulations governing the handling of such sensitive seized items.

He called on Nigerians to support the Nigerian Customs Service in its efforts to combat the smuggling of such products by providing timely information and cooperating with the service. He warned that individuals engaged in or supporting smuggling activities would face the full wrath of the law as enshrined in the new Nigeria Customs Service Act of 2023.

He assured that the Oyo/Osun Area Command remains steadfast in its mission to enforce customs regulations and will continue to work diligently to secure the nation’s borders and protect the economic interests of Nigeria by facilitating legitimate trade to ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens.