Customs patrol attacked in Ogun, suspect killed as officers foil rice smuggling operation

Operatives of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) have come under attack during an anti-smuggling operation in Ogun State, resulting in the death of one suspected smuggler and the arrest of another.

The incident occurred at about 6:00 a.m. on Saturday along a bush route in Alapoti area of Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government Area, where officers of the Ogun I Area Command were conducting a routine patrol.

According to a statement by the command’s Public Relations Officer, Deputy Superintendent of Customs Zakari Chado, the patrol team intercepted several motorcycles conveying smuggled foreign parboiled rice. A total of 46 bags of 50kg foreign rice were seized and loaded into an official patrol vehicle.

Trouble, however, started as the officers attempted to exit the area. They were reportedly ambushed by a large group of armed individuals wielding Dane guns, stones, bottles and suspected charms in an apparent bid to recover the seized items.

The officers engaged the attackers in a confrontation that lasted about 30 minutes and successfully repelled them. One of the assailants was fatally injured during the clash, while a suspect who claimed ownership of the confiscated rice was arrested and taken into custody for further investigation.

The command linked the repeated attacks on its personnel to intensified enforcement operations against smuggling activities in the area, noting that recent seizures of prohibited goods may have provoked criminal elements.

Reacting to the development, Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller Olukayode Afeni, condemned the attack, describing it as a challenge to lawful authority.

He reaffirmed the resolve of the service to continue its enforcement duties without intimidation, adding that the command remains committed to safeguarding communities and enforcing the provisions of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.