In a recent crackdown on fuel theft, the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has sealed several filling stations and penalized three fuel marketers for allegedly receiving stolen petrol. This action follows the Nigeria Customs Service’s (NCS) operations in August 2024, aimed at curbing the smuggling of petroleum products.
The NCS, in its monthly report for August, revealed the interception of seven petrol trucks, the closure of 12 retail outlets, and the confiscation of 466,000 liters of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS). Additionally, 23 vehicles were seized, and seven suspects were prosecuted following investigations into the illegal fuel operations.
NMDPRA’s actions were prompted by these findings, with the regulatory body imposing fines on the marketers found complicit in receiving stolen fuel. The sealed filling stations have also been handed over for further investigation and action.
The Customs Service highlighted its ongoing efforts through “Operation Whirlwind,” a campaign targeting the smuggling of petroleum products, especially in border regions. These intensified operations aim to combat fuel theft, which remains a significant challenge in Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector.
Apart from the fuel-related seizures, the NCS report for August also detailed 83 additional confiscations, which included 170,000 liters of petrol, 3,083 bags of foreign rice, 1,014 parcels of cannabis, and 23 vehicles. The combined value of the seized goods was estimated at over N975 million.
In terms of revenue, the NCS generated N293.3 billion in August, with N277.5 billion from import duties and N15.8 billion from excise duties. The report noted the agency’s commitment to enhancing government revenue through stringent enforcement and monitoring of customs regulations.
These efforts reflect the NCS and NMDPRA’s commitment to cracking down on illegal fuel operations and maximizing revenue generation for the government.
