A customs officer, identified as Deputy Superintendent of Customs (DSC) S. Muhammad, has been shot dead by suspected Lakurawa gunmen at the Maje Border Outstation in Bagudo Local Government Area of Kebbi State.
The tragic incident occurred around midnight on Saturday, when the attackers reportedly invaded the customs post and opened fire on the officer. During the assault, the gunmen also set the officer’s official vehicle ablaze, before fleeing the scene.
Security sources confirmed that the remains of the slain officer have been deposited at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Birnin Kebbi, while burial arrangements have been scheduled for 2:30 p.m. on Sunday.
The killing has triggered panic and fear among customs personnel manning border posts across the area, many of whom expressed concern about the growing insecurity and threats posed by the Lakurawa armed group.
A senior customs official, who preferred anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter, described the attack as “a sad reminder of the risks faced by officers protecting the nation’s borders.”
“The situation is becoming unbearable. Officers are scared to go to remote border stations because of frequent attacks,” the source said.
The latest assault adds to the rising wave of violence targeting security operatives and civilians in parts of Kebbi State, prompting renewed calls for the deployment of additional security reinforcements to safeguard border communities and restore public confidence.
Authorities are yet to issue an official statement on the incident as of the time of filing this report.