Gunmen Attack Customs Officers in Kebbi State, One Killed, Another Abducted 

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Kebbi Area Command, has reported a devastating attack on their Koko Besse patrol base on the night of Thursday, July 25, 2024. 

The attack, occurring around 9 PM, saw a group of armed men targeting the patrol base amidst heightened anti-smuggling operations in the region.

According to a statement signed by Mohammed Tajudeen Salisu, Superintendent of Customs and Public Relations Officer, Kebbi Area Command For Customs Area Controller, the assailants unleashed havoc, destroying properties and assaulting officers. 

In the ensuing chaos, the attackers pursued and assaulted two customs officers. Assistant Superintendent Customs, Dabo Umar tragically lost his life, while Superintendent of Customs Babagana Abba Kabiru was abducted by the armed men.

The statement disclosed that the body of the slain officer, Assistant Superintendent Dabo Umar, was recovered and transported to Kaduna for burial, adhering to Islamic funeral rites. 

The NCS said it has initiated a manhunt for the perpetrators of this heinous act, vowing to bring them to justice.

Customs Area Controller (CAC) Iheanacho Ernest Ojike expressed his condolences to the bereaved family and offered prayers for the safe return of the abducted officer. 

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the affected officer and the deceased,” he stated, emphasising the resilience and determination of the NCS officers.

“This unfortunate incident will not deter officers and men of the NCS Kebbi Area Command, in collaboration with other customs units and government agencies, from performing our statutory functions in the best interest of Nigerians,” asserted Ojike.

The NCS assured the public of continuous updates as the situation unfolds and reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding the nation’s borders against smuggling and other illicit activities.