A Nigeria Customs Service officer has been killed in an ambush by suspected smugglers in Ogun State, even as the service announced the seizure of contraband goods valued at ₦3.32 billion.
The tragic incident occurred during an anti-smuggling operation when customs personnel encountered armed smugglers who opened fire on the officers. The slain officer, whose identity has not yet been officially released pending notification of next of kin, died from gunshot wounds sustained during the attack.
The Nigeria Customs Service condemned the killing, describing it as a cowardly act against officers performing their lawful duties in service of the nation. Authorities have vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice and intensify operations against smuggling syndicates operating along Nigeria’s borders.
Despite the fatal attack, customs units in Ogun State have recorded significant successes in combating smuggling activities, with recent operations resulting in the seizure of contraband worth ₦3.32 billion.
The intercepted illegal goods include large quantities of foreign rice, smuggled vehicles, pharmaceutical drugs, and other prohibited items being brought into the country through unauthorized routes to evade import duties and regulatory controls.
Rice smuggling remains a persistent challenge for customs authorities, with smugglers taking advantage of porous borders to bring in foreign rice brands despite government policies aimed at boosting local production and protecting Nigerian farmers.
The seized vehicles, sources indicate, were being smuggled through illegal border crossings to avoid payment of import duties and compliance with vehicle importation regulations. Such smuggled cars often lack proper documentation and may pose safety and security risks.
Among the contraband were also pharmaceutical products, including drugs that had not been approved by regulatory authorities. Health experts warn that smuggled medications pose serious public health dangers as they may be counterfeit, expired, or improperly stored.
The Customs Area Controller in charge of the Ogun Command commended officers for their dedication and bravery despite the dangers they face from armed smugglers, while mourning the loss of their colleague.
“This senseless killing will not deter us from carrying out our mandate. We remain resolute in our fight against economic sabotage and smuggling,” the controller stated. “Our fallen officer gave his life in service to Nigeria, and we will ensure his sacrifice was not in vain.”
Security agencies, including the police and military, have been alerted and are collaborating with customs authorities to track down the killers and dismantle smuggling networks operating in the area.
Ogun State, which shares borders with the Republic of Benin, has long been a hotspot for smuggling activities, with criminal syndicates exploiting numerous illegal routes to move contraband into Nigeria. Customs officers frequently face violent resistance from well-armed smuggling gangs protecting their illicit trade.
The Nigeria Customs Service has repeatedly called for stronger border security infrastructure and increased personnel to effectively police the country’s extensive land borders and curb smuggling activities that cost the government billions in lost revenue annually.
Community leaders in border areas have been urged to cooperate with security agencies by providing intelligence on smuggling activities and refusing to harbor criminals involved in illegal cross-border trade.
The killing of the customs officer highlights the dangerous working conditions faced by security personnel deployed to border areas and the need for better protection and support for those risking their lives to safeguard national economic interests.
Arrangements are being made to honor the fallen officer, with the customs service promising to support his family during this difficult time.