Armed Drug Traffickers Attack Customs Officers in Ogun, Two Critically Injured

Victoria Silvanus
Two officers of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) are battling for their lives after suspected armed drug traffickers launched a violent attack on a patrol team in Ogun State during an anti-smuggling operation.

The incident occurred on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at about 4:00 p.m. in the Akokoro area of Iwoye, Imeko-Afon Local Government Area of Ogun State. Officers of the Ogun I Area Command were acting on credible intelligence when they intercepted a 12-tyre truck suspected to be conveying a large consignment of illicit drugs and other prohibited items.

According to a press release issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Zakari Chado, before reinforcement teams could arrive, the suspects mobilised a large number of armed hoodlums and launched a coordinated attack on the officers. The attackers reportedly mounted heavy barricades at nine strategic points along access routes, effectively blocking reinforcements from reaching the scene.
In the ensuing confrontation, the assailants opened fire on Customs personnel and disabled a patrol vehicle by shooting out its tyres, creating what officials described as a highly volatile and dangerous operational environment.

During the exchange of gunfire, two Customs officers sustained gunshot wounds and were rushed to medical facilities, where they are currently receiving intensive care. Exploiting the multiple barricades and confusion, the smugglers fled the scene with the intercepted truck.

The Nigeria Customs Service has since commenced investigations aimed at identifying, tracking, and apprehending all individuals involved in the attack.

Reacting to the incident, the Acting Customs Area Controller of the Ogun I Area Command, Deputy Comptroller Olukayode Afeni, condemned the attack, describing it as barbaric. He reaffirmed that such violent resistance would not deter the Service from discharging its statutory responsibility to combat smuggling and safeguard national security.
Afeni also appealed to traditional rulers and community leaders within the area to caution residents against engaging in smuggling activities or attacking security personnel, warning that offenders would face the full weight of the law.

The Nigeria Customs Service assured law-abiding citizens of their safety and reiterated its unwavering commitment to border security, public health, and the enforcement of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.

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