Suspected armed drug smugglers on Thursday attacked operatives of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) in Ogun State, leaving two officers critically injured.

The incident occurred at Akokoro area of Iwoye, Imeko-Afon Local Government Area, during an intelligence-led operation by officers of the Ogun I Area Command, Idiroko.

Customs Public Relations Officer of the command, Mr. Zakaria Chado, said the officers had intercepted a 12-tyre truck suspected to be conveying a large consignment of illicit drugs and other prohibited items when they were ambushed.

According to him, the smugglers mobilised a large number of armed hoodlums who launched a coordinated attack on the patrol team before reinforcements could arrive.

“In a deliberate attempt to obstruct law enforcement, the attackers mounted heavy barricades at no fewer than nine strategic points, effectively blocking access routes and preventing timely reinforcement,” Chado said.

He added that the assailants opened fire on the officers and disabled a Customs patrol vehicle by shooting at its tyres, creating a highly volatile operational environment.

“During the exchange of gunfire, two officers of the Nigeria Customs Service sustained gunshot injuries and are currently receiving intensive medical care in critical condition.

“Taking advantage of the multiple barricades, the smugglers escaped from the scene with the intercepted truck,” he said.

Chado disclosed that investigations had commenced to identify, track and apprehend all those involved in the attack.

Condemning the incident, the Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller Olukayode Afeni, described the attack as barbaric and an assault on national security.

Afeni assured that the violent resistance would not deter the Service from carrying out its statutory responsibility of combating smuggling and safeguarding the nation’s borders.

He called on traditional rulers and community leaders within the command’s area of operation to caution their subjects against smuggling and attacks on security personnel, warning that offenders would face the full weight of the law.

The area controller reassured law-abiding residents of their safety and reiterated the unwavering commitment of the Nigeria Customs Service to border security, public health, and the enforcement of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.

(NAN)