The Nigeria Police Force has seized over 100 jerrycans of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, in separate anti-smuggling operations designed to curb cross-border economic crimes.
Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, revealed this in a Saturday statement, explaining that the seizures and arrests were made by operatives of the Border Patrol Unit during routine stop-and-search duties.
He said one suspect, identified as Yasir Adamu, was arrested along the Illela–Sokoto Highway while conveying 80 jerrycans of petrol allegedly intended for smuggling into the Niger Republic.
“After preliminary investigation, it was discovered that the suspect was attempting to smuggle the petroleum product across the border into the Niger Republic,” Hundeyin stated.
In another operation in Katsina State, police operatives intercepted 35 jerrycans of petrol, each with 25 litres, abandoned by smugglers who escaped when they sighted the patrol officers.
Hundeyin added that efforts are ongoing to capture the fleeing suspects, stressing that the latest seizures highlight the Force’s renewed determination to boost border security and dismantle illegal fuel trafficking networks.
Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, lauded the operatives for their alertness and professionalism, assuring that the Force would step up operations against all forms of economic crimes.
“The officers have demonstrated commendable vigilance and professionalism. The Nigeria Police Force will sustain robust operations against all forms of economic crimes,” Egbetokun said.
