Two Nigeria Customs officers critically injured in armed smugglers’ attack in Ogun State

Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun I Area Command, has confirmed that two of its officers sustained critical gunshot injuries following a violent attack by suspected armed drug traffickers during an anti-smuggling operation in Akokoro, Iwoye, Imeko-Afon Local Government Area, Ogun State.

According to the Command Public Relations Officer, Zakari Chado, officers acting on credible intelligence intercepted a 12-tyre truck suspected of carrying a large consignment of illicit drugs and other prohibited items. Before reinforcements could arrive, the suspects mobilized a large group of armed hoodlums and launched a coordinated assault on the patrol team.

The attackers, in an apparent bid to obstruct law enforcement, erected heavy barricades at nine strategic points to prevent access and reinforcements. They opened fire on the officers and disabled a Customs patrol vehicle by shooting out its tyres, creating a highly volatile situation.

During the ensuing exchange of gunfire, two officers were critically injured and are currently receiving intensive medical care. The smugglers took advantage of the barricades to flee the scene with the intercepted truck.

The Acting Customs Area Controller of Ogun I Area Command, Deputy Comptroller Olukayode Afeni, condemned the attack as barbaric and reassured that such violent resistance will not deter the Service from fulfilling its statutory mandate to combat smuggling and protect national security.

He called on traditional rulers and community leaders to caution their subjects against engaging in smuggling or attacks on security personnel, warning that offenders would face the full weight of the law.

Deputy Comptroller Afeni further reassured law-abiding members of the public of their safety and reiterated the Nigeria Customs Service’s unwavering commitment to border security, public health, and enforcement of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.

Investigations have commenced to identify, track, and apprehend all those involved in the attack.