Mob attack customs over smuggled petrol in Adamawa

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has decried a violent mob attack on its operatives during an anti-smuggling operation in Adamawa State, even as it announced the seizure of petroleum products valued at ₦95.7 million.

At a press briefing held at the Customs Area Command in Yola on Thursday, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, represented by Deputy Comptroller Hussain Ejibunu, revealed that the attack occurred on July 16 during an intelligence-led raid on smugglers in Zone D.

According to Ejibunu, customs officers were ambushed by mobs and smugglers who blocked access roads and launched a coordinated assault. “Officers were physically attacked, and one operational vehicle was drenched in petrol in an attempt to set it ablaze along with personnel,” he said.

Despite efforts to calm the situation, several officers sustained injuries, and a customs vehicle was vandalised. Citing Section 240(3)(a) of the NCS Act 2023, Adeniyi warned that obstruction or assault of customs personnel carries a penalty of ₦5 million, five years imprisonment, or both.

He urged border communities to respect law enforcement officers, who he described as “parents, spouses, and community members serving under difficult conditions.”

The NCS confirmed that a joint investigation with other security agencies is underway to identify and prosecute those involved in the attack. It also called on traditional rulers and community leaders to support anti-smuggling efforts.

Meanwhile, operatives of Operation Whirlwind intercepted 2,276 jerricans of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and 19 jerricans of Automotive Gas Oil (AGO)—totaling 69,375 litres—intended for illegal export. Two vehicles used in the smuggling operation were also seized.

The interceptions were made at several smuggling hotspots, including Malabu, Belel axis, Girei Wuro Bokki, Gurin Fufore axis, Jamtari, Maiha, Jimeta Waterside, and the Mubi Sahuda axis. The seized products and vehicles have a combined duty-paid value of ₦95.7 million.

Adeniyi emphasized that such illegal export activities contribute to fuel scarcity and revenue loss in the country.