The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), under the special enforcement initiative Operation Whirlwind, has intercepted two trucks carrying a total of 120,000 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) suspected to have been diverted from their documented destination.

According to the Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind for Zone B, Mr. Kola Olawole, the trucks, each loaded with 60,000 litres of PMS, were intercepted along the Sokoto-Illela Road on October 4.

The fuel was originally documented for delivery in Kano, but was diverted en route to Sokoto State.

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Speaking to journalists on Friday in Sokoto, Olawole revealed that the drivers of the trucks, bearing registration numbers DKA 309 XA and GSW 321 XA, fled the scene when operatives attempted to apprehend them.

Olawole said, “Our investigation indicates the PMS was being diverted for smuggling through the Illela border.

“The offenses involve irregular routing and documentation anomalies, which are clear violations of existing laws.”

He stressed that fuel diversion is more than an economic crime, noting that it undermines national development, energy security, and the general welfare of citizens.

Olawole further stated that Operation Whirlwind has significantly contributed to stabilizing PMS supply across the country by curbing smuggling and related illicit activities

He added, “We remain resolute in our mission to detect, deter, and dismantle these criminal operations.”

The seized tankers were formally handed over to Mr. Ali Ajimi, the Sokoto/Kebbi State Coordinator for the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).

Receiving the vehicles, Ajimi commended the Customs operatives for their swift action and pledged continued collaboration in combating smuggling and other economic crimes.

Ajimi said, “This partnership is critical in protecting national resources and ensuring Nigerians have consistent access to essential commodities.”