The Nigeria Police Border Patrol Unit has intercepted over 100 jerrycans of petrol being smuggled into Niger Republic through Sokoto and Katsina highways, arresting one suspect and recovering the illegal fuel consignment
Police Foil Fuel Smuggling Attempt, Seize Over 100 Jerrycans of Petrol Bound for Niger Republic
ABUJA, Nigeria – October 4, 2025: The Nigeria Police Force has recorded another major success in its fight against cross-border economic crimes as operatives of the Border Patrol Unit intercepted over 100 jerrycans of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) being illegally transported towards the Niger Republic.
The operation, carried out along the Illela–Sokoto Highway, led to the arrest of one Yasir Adamu, who was caught driving a vehicle loaded with 80 jerrycans of petrol.
According to police authorities, preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect was attempting to smuggle the petroleum product across Nigeria’s border into the Niger Republic.
In a related development, another patrol team in Katsina State intercepted 35 jerrycans, each containing 25 litres of PMS, hidden in a vehicle also headed toward the border. The smugglers, upon sighting the operatives, abandoned the exhibits and fled into nearby bushes.
Police spokesperson CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, who confirmed the operation in a statement from Force Headquarters, Abuja, said efforts are ongoing to track down the fleeing suspects and bring them to justice.
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, commended the Border Patrol operatives for their vigilance, professionalism, and swift response, describing their effort as a crucial step toward curbing economic sabotage.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains steadfast in sustaining robust operations against all forms of economic crimes, especially fuel diversion and smuggling which undermine our national economy,” IGP Egbetokun stated.
He urged members of the public to continue supporting law enforcement efforts by reporting suspicious activities near Nigeria’s border regions.
The seized petrol has been confiscated and handed over for further investigation, while security around key border routes has been reinforced to prevent a recurrence.
