Police foil petrol smuggling attempt, seize over 100 jerrycans in Sokoto, Katsina

Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force Border Patrol Unit have intercepted over 100 jerrycans of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, in a foiled smuggling attempt across the nation’s borders.

Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, disclosed in a statement on Saturday that officers made the discovery during a routine stop-and-search operation along the Illela–Sokoto Highway.

According to Hundeyin, the operatives intercepted a vehicle carrying 80 jerrycans of petrol and arrested the driver, identified as Yasir Adamu. Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect was attempting to smuggle the fuel into Niger Republic.

In a related operation, officers in Katsina State recovered an additional 35 jerrycans, each containing 25 litres of PMS, which were also bound for the Niger border. Hundeyin said the suspects abandoned the exhibits and fled upon sighting the patrol team.

He added that efforts are ongoing to track down the fleeing suspects and bring them to justice.

Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, commended the operatives for their vigilance and professionalism, reaffirming the Force’s commitment to intensifying operations against economic sabotage and cross-border crimes.