The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun I Area Command, has condemned a violent attack on its officers by suspected armed drug traffickers during an anti-smuggling operation in Ogun State. The attack, which occurred at the Akokoro area of Iwoye in Imeko-Afon Local Government Area, left two Customs officers with serious gunshot injuries.
The incident was confirmed by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Mr Zakari Chado, who said the officers were acting on credible intelligence when they were attacked. According to him, the officers had moved to intercept a 12-tyre truck suspected to be carrying a large quantity of illicit drugs and other prohibited items into the country.
Mr Chado explained that the operation was part of the Command’s ongoing efforts to curb smuggling and illegal drug trafficking along border communities in Ogun State. Ogun shares a long boundary with the Republic of Benin, making it a major route for smugglers bringing banned goods into Nigeria.
He said that as the officers approached the area, suspected smugglers, believed to be armed drug traffickers, launched a coordinated attack to stop the interception. The attackers reportedly mounted barricades at about nine strategic points, blocking major access roads to prevent reinforcement and escape routes.
According to the Customs spokesperson, the attackers opened fire on the officers, forcing them into a gun battle. During the exchange, the tyres of a Customs patrol vehicle were shot, leaving the vehicle disabled and limiting the officers’ ability to pursue the suspects or retreat safely.
“In the process, two officers of the Nigeria Customs Service sustained gunshot injuries,” Mr Chado said. “They were immediately evacuated and are currently receiving intensive medical care.”
Amid the confusion and heavy gunfire, the smugglers reportedly escaped with the truck suspected to be conveying the illicit drugs. The exact contents of the truck could not be confirmed, as the attackers succeeded in forcing their way through the area.
Reacting to the incident, the Acting Customs Area Controller of Ogun I Area Command, Mr Olukayode Afeni, strongly condemned the attack, describing it as a direct assault on the authority of the Federal Government and a threat to national security.
Mr Afeni said the Command had launched a full investigation into the attack and assured that efforts were ongoing to identify and apprehend those responsible. He stressed that such violent acts would not discourage Customs officers from carrying out their lawful duties.
“This attack on our officers is unacceptable,” he said. “We will not relent in our responsibility to protect the nation’s borders and stop the activities of smugglers and criminal elements.”
He also appealed to traditional rulers, community leaders and residents of border areas to cooperate with security agencies. According to him, communities play a key role in preventing smuggling and protecting law enforcement officers.
Mr Afeni urged local leaders to warn their youths and subjects against engaging in smuggling or attacking security personnel, noting that such actions bring insecurity and hardship to the communities themselves.
The attack has once again drawn attention to the dangers faced by Customs officers and other security agents operating in Nigeria’s border areas. Smugglers dealing in drugs, arms, and other prohibited items are increasingly becoming violent, often using sophisticated weapons to protect their illegal businesses.
In recent years, Ogun State has recorded several clashes between smugglers and security agencies due to its strategic location along Nigeria’s western border. The Nigeria Customs Service has intensified patrols and intelligence-led operations in the area to reduce the flow of illegal goods into the country.
Drug trafficking, in particular, remains a major concern, as illicit drugs contribute to rising crime, youth violence, and health problems across Nigeria. Security agencies have warned that drug cartels often use border communities to move substances into major cities.
Residents of Imeko-Afon and surrounding areas expressed concern over the incident, calling for increased security presence to prevent further violence. Some community members said the frequent clashes between smugglers and security agents have disrupted daily life and created fear among locals.
As investigations continue, the Nigeria Customs Service has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s borders and ensuring that those who attack its officers are brought to justice. The Command also reassured the public that measures are being taken to improve the safety of personnel during operations.
The injured officers are said to be responding to treatment, while the search for the attackers remains ongoing.