By Femi Anamelechi
The National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, Deputy Comptroller Mahmood Ishidi, has vowed to intensify the crackdown on economic saboteurs after the interception and auction of smuggled petroleum products with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of ₦15,375,000 at the Kwara Area Command in Ilorin on Wednesday, 11 November 2026.The intelligence-driven operations, conducted across strategic smuggling flashpoints in Kwara State, including Kaiama Axis, Shiya, Kenu, Boriya, Luma, Baruten, Ilesha-Baruba, Taberu and Salla-Gwanara, resulted in the seizure of 615 jerrycans of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), each containing 25 litres, bringing the total volume to 15,375 litres.Speaking on the development, DC Ishidi said the interception demonstrated the Service’s commitment to enforcing government policies that protect the nation’s strategic resources and safeguard Nigerians’ collective interests.“The successful interception of this seized consignment underscores our resolute dedication to upholding the laws and policies designed to safeguard Nigeria’s strategic resources and ensure they are managed in a manner that serves the collective interest of all citizens. It is important to emphasise that the smuggling of petroleum products constitutes a serious act of economic sabotage,” he said.
He explained that petroleum products smuggling not only deprives the nation of critical revenue but also distorts the domestic supply chain, creating artificial scarcity and driving up costs to the disadvantage of ordinary Nigerians. He added that the illegal trade strengthens organised criminal networks, undermines border security and poses broader threats to national security. The National Coordinator also commended the leadership and personnel of the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) for their collaboration and strategic partnership in strengthening inter-agency cooperation.“I equally extend my sincere commendation to the leadership and personnel of the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) for their invaluable collaboration, strategic partnership, and continued commitment to strengthening inter-agency cooperation,” he said.DC Ishidi further appealed to residents of border communities to sustain their support for security agencies by providing timely, credible intelligence to support ongoing efforts to dismantle smuggling networks and protect the nation’s economic interests.
