Customs Defends Accidental Killing Of Smuggler In Lagos

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone A, has confirmed the accidental killing of a smuggler in the Badagry area of Lagos State.

The incident occurred when customs officers were evacuating smuggled rice and were attacked by an armed gang.

According to Theophilus Duniya, the Public Relations Officer of FOU Zone A, a group of men armed with charms and machetes attacked the customs team during the rice evacuation operation.

“They injured a customs officer in the face and a soldier on the leg,” Duniya said. “Our personnel, acting in self-defense, neutralized the leader of the gang to prevent him from inflicting more injuries on them.”

The gang leader, identified as Saka Wakilu, was evacuated for immediate medical attention but unfortunately died on the way to the hospital.

Duniya expressed regret over the incident, stating that the customs officers had no choice but to use force to protect themselves.

Duniya urged parents and community leaders to discourage their children from engaging in criminal activities that could put their well-being and other citizens at risk.

He emphasized the need for cooperation between the public and law enforcement agencies to combat smuggling and other illicit activities.

The incident took place in Erekiti, a border town in the Badagry area, around 4 a.m. on Sunday. 

 Duniya confirmed that the late smuggler, Saka Wakilu, was the leader of the gang that attacked the customs officers.

The Nigeria Customs Service reiterated its commitment to enforcing laws and protecting its personnel while carrying out their duties.

The agency also called for a collaborative effort to address the issue of smuggling and ensure the safety of all citizens.