By Danlami Nmodu
Officers and men of Nigeria Customs Service who were on a stop-and-search operation based on credible information along Bunza – Dakingari – Koko Road, came under heavy gunfire by suspected bandits, Thursday.
Mubarak Mustapha, Assistant Superintendent of Customs II, Ag. Public Relations, Kebbi Area Command Nigeria Customs Service, who disclosed this in a statement said two Customs personnel were killed.
He further revealed that a manhunt has commenced to apprehend and prosecute the suspects
The statement by the Customs service reads: “On Thursday, 24th August 2023, at about 0128hrs, a team of Kebbi Area Command officers and men of the Nigeria Customs, while on a stop-and-search operation based on credible information along Bunza – Dakingari – Koko Road, were engaged with heavy gunfire by suspected bandits in an ash-coloured Toyota Corolla vehicle.
“In the melee that ensued, two personnel of the Command, Alhaji Kabiru Shehu, an Inspector of Customs and Abdullahi Muhammad, a Customs Assistant II, paid the supreme price. The officers have since been laid to rest according to Islamic rites.
“While praying for the repose of the deceased, the Command has launched a manhunt for the suspects with the view to arrest and prosecute them.
“The Customs Area Area Controller, Comptroller Ben Oramalugo, commiserates with the families on the tragic incident and prays that God Almighty grants them the fortitude to bear the loss.
In conclusion, he said, “The CAC also urges members of the public to volunteer information about the movement of suspected smugglers and other criminals. He assured such informants of strict confidentiality.”
