The Western Marine Command of the Nigeria Customs Service on Thursday, in Lagos disclosed that a total of 865 kegs of Premium Motor Spirit also known as (PMS) were intercepted .
The seizure was made on the 8th of December 2021 at the Ashipa rivers within the coastal and harbour patrol (Bar-Beach) while acting on credible information.
Speaking with newsmen , Acting Controller of the amphibious unit of customs, Deputy Comptroller, DC Enonche Ochiba noted that the kegs were secured and evacuated to the base saying that upon examination it was found to be 25litres of the aforementioned figure each given a total of 21,625 litres.
Though no suspects were arrest during the operations by officers and men of the command, the customs boss stressed that the total value of the seizure stood at N3, 633,000.00.
He said with the seizure of PMS records are strong indication that the operatives of the Command are working tirelessly to combat smuggling on the waterways.
Ochiba further warned smugglers and would-be smugglers; that personnel of the service will continue to run them out of business saying “We are aware of your plans during the yuletide season, I want you to know that our operatives are vigilant and on patrol duties to tame the scourge of smuggling activities and other vices on the South Western waterways and will leave no stone unturned until you are apprehended and prosecuted.
The DC also commended other security agencies for their support in the fight against smuggling along the waterways pointing out that intelligence gathered led to the seizure of petroleum products.
“I want to use this medium to appreciate the efforts of other sister agencies and patriotic Nigerians for their contributions in providing relevant information in our fight against smuggling.
“Let me on behalf of the Officers/Men of Western Marine Command appreciate the CGC and his management team for their motivation and support given to the Command in the discharge of our statutory responsibilities.
“The operatives will continue to discharge the duty vested on them and will not rest on their oars in the fight against smuggling and drug trafficking.
By Roland Ekama
