The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun 1 Area Command, Idiroko, has confirmed an attack on its personnel by suspected armed drug smugglers at Akokoro, Iwoye, in Imeko-Afon Local Government Area of Ogun State, after officers acting on credible intelligence intercepted a 12-tyre truck suspected to be conveying illicit drugs and other prohibited items. An operation that escalated into violence on Thursday at about 4:00 p.m., with the Command’s spokesperson, Mr Zakaria Chado, stating that before reinforcements could arrive, the suspects mobilised armed hoodlums who launched a coordinated assault, during which “In a deliberate effort to obstruct law enforcement, the attackers mounted heavy barricades at about nine strategic points to block access routes, preventing timely reinforcement.”
Adding that “They opened fire on the officers and disabled a Customs patrol vehicle by shooting at its tyres, creating a volatile and dangerous operational environment,” resulting in two officers sustaining gunshot injuries and remaining in critical condition while receiving intensive medical care, as the smugglers exploited the barricades to flee with the intercepted truck, prompting investigations to identify and apprehend those involved. Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller Olukayode Afeni, condemned the attack as barbaric, warned that violent resistance would not deter the Service from its mandate, urged traditional rulers and community leaders to caution residents against smuggling and attacks on security personnel, and reassured the public of safety as the NCS reaffirmed its commitment to border security, public health, and enforcement of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.