The Nigeria Customs Service’s Operation Whirlwind has handed over five tanker trucks conveying suspected diverted Automotive Gas Oil, commonly known as diesel, to the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) for further investigation and administrative action.
Speaking at the handover on Friday, October 23, 2026, the National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind said the exercise was conducted on the directive of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.
The trucks bear registration numbers BBR 634 XA, BRK 828 MF, YLA 243 XU, KTN 278 XZ and MUS 134 BX.
According to the coordinator, operatives intercepted the vehicles following credible intelligence on July 6, 2026, at about 11 p.m. The trucks were deposited at Tasha Joli, opposite 33 Military Barracks in Maiduguri.
Preliminary checks on the suspected diverted and transloaded consignments raised concerns about possible irregularities and infractions, prompting their referral to the petroleum regulator.
The coordinator said the interception demonstrated the importance of inter-agency collaboration, intelligence sharing and coordinated enforcement in tackling the illegal movement, diversion and smuggling of petroleum products.
“The tide is turning against petroleum smuggling, illegal diversion, and all associated economic crimes,” the coordinator said.
Operation Whirlwind, the coordinator added, would sustain intelligence-led operations to identify and intercept illicit activities, dismantle smuggling networks and curb the diversion of petroleum products.
The coordinator assured stakeholders that enforcement activities would be conducted professionally, in compliance with the law and established procedures.
Commending the support of the Comptroller-General and the management of the Nigeria Customs Service, the coordinator also acknowledged the contributions of the Office of the National Security Adviser, NMDPRA and Operation Whirlwind personnel.
The handover, the coordinator said, reflected the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting Nigeria’s petroleum resources and ensuring they were utilised for the benefit of Nigerians.
The operation also pledged to strengthen surveillance, improve intelligence gathering and deepen cooperation among relevant agencies to protect the integrity of the petroleum supply chain.
The suspected diversion remains subject to further regulatory investigation by NMDPRA.