Customs warns border communities against smuggling

The Nigeria Customs Service urged border communities not to collaborate with smuggling networks, calling the activity economic sabotage. In Yola, Comptroller-General Bashir Adewale, represented by Abubakar Aliyu, announced plans to restructure and re-equip the anti-smuggling unit Operation Whirlwind and strengthen cooperation with other security agencies. Over six weeks, operatives seized 1,548 jerrycans of petrol, each holding 25 litres, allegedly destined for neighbouring countries, along with vehicles used in the operation; the seizures have a duty-paid value of ₦63.115 million. Adewale also identified five smuggling hotspots in Adamawa State, including the Malabu–Belel and Mubi–Sahuda routes.