Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force Border Patrol Unit have intercepted and seized over one hundred jerrycans of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, in two separate operations aimed at curbing cross-border smuggling.
A statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, revealed that the interception took place during routine stop-and-search operations along major border routes in Sokoto and Katsina States.
According to the statement, officers on patrol along the Illela–Sokoto Highway stopped a vehicle carrying eighty jerrycans of PMS and arrested the driver, identified as Yasir Adamu. Preliminary investigations indicated that the petrol was being smuggled into the Niger Republic.
In a related operation, Border Patrol operatives in Katsina State intercepted thirty-five jerrycans, each containing twenty-five litres of petrol, which were also being prepared for illegal transportation across the border. The suspects reportedly abandoned the consignment and fled upon sighting the patrol team.
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, commended the operatives for their vigilance and professionalism. He reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to intensifying operations against all forms of economic sabotage, particularly cross-border fuel smuggling.
Efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects and ensure they face the full weight of the law.
