Customs sets up special operation against petrol smuggling

Mkpoikana Udoma –

Port Harcourt — The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Adewale Adeniyi, has inaugurated a special tactical team, Operation Whirlwind, aimed at combating the smuggling of petroleum products to the neighbouring countries.

Adeniyi, while inaugurating the task force, emphasised the crucial role the team will play in protecting the nation’s economy from the adverse effects of smuggling petroleum products.

He said a workshop designed to equip the Operation Whirlwind team with the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively curb smuggling, particularly of petroleum products diverted to neighbouring countries, has been inaugurated.

According to him, the inauguration of Operation Whirlwind marks a significant step in Nigeria’s fight against smuggling and economic sabotage, as the team is expected to protect Nigeria’s economic interests with unwavering dedication and integrity.

“Economic saboteurs must be brought to justice. Over the years, we have rebuilt the service to an enviable height, our revenue is increasing, and our targets have also increased. However, if we are not significantly impacting the Nigerian economy, then we must do better.

“This is not a task force or the setting up of checkpoints. This is an intelligence-driven operation that will support the political will at the highest level. Our dedication and loyalty must not be compromised. There will be serious consequences against whoever acts against this mission. There is zero tolerance for sabotage” he said.

The Customs boss tasked members of the special task force on the need for collaboration and unity among officers.

He added: “You were selected because you can do the job. Your coordinator’s record is impeccable, and your assignment can’t succeed without you working as a team. You are to complement the existing structure. You are not going as competitors; you are going to fight people sabotaging our efforts.

“The Director of Legal Services is scheduled to educate the team on the proper procedures for filing seizures, ensuring that all legal aspects of their operations are handled correctly.”