Customs Seizes 15,300 Litres of Smuggled Petrol

The Nigeria Customs Service, under the leadership of Comptroller Abdullahi Ka Ila, reported the seizure of various contraband items, including 15,300 litres of smuggled petrol, a 2015 Mercedes Benz ML350 4MATIC, and five live pangolins. The total estimated duty paid value of the seized items is N52.6 million.

The seizures occurred in different locations in February, with the petrol intercepted in Mubi, Adamawa State, and the car along the Abuja-Nasarawa axis. The operation also included the confiscation of 33 cartons of foreign soap due to non-compliance with import regulations.

The five live pangolins were rescued in Taraba State, highlighting the ongoing issue of wildlife trafficking, which violates the Nigeria Customs Service Act of 2023. Three suspects linked to this illegal trade were arrested.

The pangolins will be handed over to the National Conservation for proper care. Comptroller General Bashir Adewal Adeniyi commended the efforts of the patrol team and urged the public to provide credible intelligence to help secure the nation's borders.