The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit Zone A, in Ikeja, Lagos State, confirmed the death of a smuggler in the Badagry area following a confrontation with customs officers and soldiers.
The unit’s spokesperson, Theophilus Duniya, issued a statement on Wednesday detailing the incident.
According to Duniya, customs officers and soldiers intercepted smugglers transporting foreign parboiled rice and vehicles near the waterside in Badagry.
During the interception, the smugglers, led by an individual wielding charms and a machete, attacked the enforcement team.
The officers and soldiers were forced to defend themselves, resulting in a shootout.
Related News: Nigeria Records $1.432 Billion Current Account Surplus in 2024: IMF
Several customs officials and a soldier sustained injuries during the clash.
The head smuggler was maimed by the officers in self-defense and subsequently died while being transported to the hospital.
βThe FOU Zone A of the NCS has confirmed an incident that occurred on Sunday morning, June 2, 2024, at approximately 03:00 hours,” Duniya said.
He elaborated on the encounter, noting the bravery and professionalism of the customs and army personnel under dangerous conditions.
The Comptroller of FOU A, Kola Oladeji, praised the officers’ conduct and reaffirmed the unit’s dedication to combating smuggling.
Oladeji also called on parents and community leaders to dissuade their youth from engaging in smuggling and other criminal activities that pose risks to their lives and those of others.
Do you want to share a story with us? Do you have a life experience, press statement or opinion you want to share with the public? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348033617468, Email: validviewnetwork@gmail.com
Click the link πππ to join our WhatsApp platform
