By Nkechi Eze
The Nigerian Navy has intensified its crackdown on cross-border fuel smuggling operations with the interception and recovery of more than 6,000 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) during a targeted operation along the Badagry-Ajara axis of Lagos State.
According to an official signed statement by the Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, the operation was carried out by personnel of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Badagry following credible intelligence on the activities of fuel smugglers operating within the area.
The statement explained that the mission formed part of ongoing efforts by the Nigerian Navy to disrupt illegal fuel trafficking routes and prevent the movement of petroleum products through unauthorized border corridors.
During the operation, naval personnel reportedly discovered about 240 jerrycans, each containing 25 litres of PMS, concealed and prepared for illegal transportation through the Badagry border waterways.
The products were subsequently recovered and evacuated to FOB Badagry for further necessary action in line with established operational procedures.
Navy Captain Folorunsho stated that the operation underscores the Nigerian Navy’s sustained commitment to dismantling the logistics networks supporting trans-border smuggling activities, particularly the illegal diversion of petroleum products through maritime and littoral routes.
The Navy further reaffirmed its determination to sustain operational pressure across strategic border corridors and deny criminal networks the opportunity to exploit the maritime environment for economic sabotage.
