The Oyo/Osun Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has successfully intercepted and seized a significant quantity of Petroleum Motor Spirit (PMS) along the Ayegun axis of Oyo State.
The operation, which took place on Wednesday 24th July, 2024, resulting in the seizure of 94 drums, each containing 235 litres, and 44 kegs, each containing 25 litres (totaling 23,190 litres) of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).
The Customs Area Controller(CAC) of the Oyo/Osun Area Command, Dr. Ben Oramalugo disclosed on Thursday 25th July, 2024 that the interception was made possible through the diligent efforts of the Command’s anti-smuggling team, who acted on credible intelligence.
The seized Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), which was intended for smuggling through the border to neighboring countries, was concealed in a manner aimed at evading detection by law enforcement agencies.
Oramalugo, pointed out that the interception and seizure was very significant and it underscores the unwavering commitment of the Oyo/Osun Area Command of the NCS to combating the smuggling petroleum products and protecting the nation’s economy. The illegal exportation of Premium Motor Spirit (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.
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 all forms of illegal activities within its jurisdiction.
He added that the seized Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), would be disposed of following due process, in line with the laws and regulations governing the handling of such sensitive seized items.
Calling on members of the public to support the NCS in its efforts to combat smuggling of such product by providing timely information and cooperating with the Service, Oramalugo warned that individuals found engaging 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 members of the public that, the Oyo/Osun Area Command of the NCS remains steadfast in its mission to enforce customs regulations and will continue to work diligently to secure the nation’s borders, protect the economic interests of Nigeria by facilitating legitimate trade to ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens.
