Customs Auction Seized Petroleum Products in Kebbi

The Operation Whirlwind Zone B of Nigeria Customs Service, on Tuesday conducted a public auction of 365 jerrycans of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), amounting to 9,125 litres with a Duty Paid Value of ₦9,125,000, seized by operatives of Operation Whirlwind in Zone B at Kebbi Command.

Representing the National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, Deputy Comptroller of Customs Abubakar Lucky Aliyu (PSC, PhD), the Team Commander highlighted the operation’s success in intercepting petroleum products across strategic flashpoints including Kamba, Bagudo, Gwadabawa, and Illela in the Sokoto/Kebbi axis.

“Today’s auction demonstrates our commitment to transparency, accountability, and prudent management of seized petroleum products,” the Commander stated, urging participants to adhere strictly to auction guidelines.

Operation Whirlwind, a special task force mandated to curb smuggling and diversion of petroleum products, credited the interception to credible intelligence and the vigilance of its officers. The Commander commended the support of the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) under Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the technical partnership of the Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), and the steadfast backing of the Comptroller-General of Customs.

He further warned smugglers that the operation remains “resolute and intelligence-driven,” vowing to dismantle smuggling networks wherever they operate. The public, especially border communities, were called upon to provide timely information to aid security agencies in combating economic sabotage.

The auction was attended by Customs officials, NMDPRA representatives, stakeholders, and members of the public.