Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Henry Owen
Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force Border Patrol Unit have intercepted and recovered over 100 jerrycans of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly referred to as petrol, destined for illegal cross-border transport.
The first operation took place along the Illela–Sokoto Highway, where officers stopped and searched a vehicle carrying eighty jerrycans of PMS. The driver, identified as Yasir Adamu, was arrested on the spot. Preliminary investigations revealed that Adamu was attempting to smuggle the fuel across the border into the Niger Republic.
In a separate operation in Katsina State, border patrol operatives recovered thirty-five additional jerrycans, each containing twenty-five litres of PMS. The suspects, upon seeing the police team, abandoned the fuel and fled. Efforts are ongoing to locate and apprehend the individuals responsible for this attempted smuggling.
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, commended the operatives involved in both operations for their vigilance and professionalism. He emphasized that the Nigeria Police Force remains committed to curbing all forms of economic crimes, including the illegal transportation and distribution of petroleum products.
The recoveries highlight the persistent threat posed by cross-border smuggling to Nigeria’s economy and underscore the role of law enforcement in protecting national resources. The police have assured the public that operations targeting illicit trade in petroleum products will continue, stressing that such acts undermine regulatory frameworks, reduce government revenue, and create unfair market conditions.
CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, Force Public Relations Officer, noted that collaboration with other security agencies and community stakeholders is crucial in detecting and preventing these economic crimes. He also urged members of the public to report suspicious activities to the police to enhance border security and ensure the integrity of the nation’s supply chain.
Authorities confirmed that the seized PMS will be secured under police custody while investigations continue. The Nigeria Police Force reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on smuggling, asserting that all perpetrators will face prosecution under relevant national laws.
The operations demonstrate the proactive measures being taken to safeguard national resources, protect the economy, and maintain public safety along Nigeria’s borders.
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