The Forward Operating Base (FOB) of the Nigerian Navy in Badagry, Lagos State, has seized 15,540 litres of petrol stored in a building along the creeks.

The Commanding Officer of the FOB, Navy Capt. B A Amakiri, said naval operatives intercepted 518 ×30 Jerry cans on Thursday, at about 11:00 am, at Agbojetho-Akorin Beach along Badagry-Seme Road.

According to him, the navy acted after receiving an intelligence tip-off about the activities of some suspected smugglers within the area.

“The intelligence indicated that several jerry cans suspected to contain petrol were stored in a building within Agbojetho-Akorin Beach along Badagry-Seme Road.

“Consequently, the Base Quick Response Team proceeded to the beach general area for investigation and possible arrest and seizure.

“The team conducted a cordon and search operation in the area and discovered 518 x 30 litres jerry cans of the suspected products,” he said.

Amakiri explained that the quantity of the petrol product translates to about 15,540litres, valued at N9,479,400 at the current rate of about N610 per litre.

“The perpetrators absconded on getting information about the approach of the team.

“It is suspected that the perpetrators had the intention of smuggling the products out of Nigeria to the Benin Republic.

“The adjoining communities were also searched, but no other products or suspects were found,”he said.

Amakiri restated the commitment of his officers to continue making smuggling unattractive, adding that the economic saboteurs would be frustrated until smuggling was suppressed to the barest minimum.