Two officers of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) are currently in critical condition following a violent attack by suspected armed drug traffickers during an anti-smuggling operation in Ogun State.
The incident occurred on Thursday, 22 January 2026, at about 4:00 p.m. at the Akokoro area of Iwoye, in Imeko-Afon Local Government Area, during an operation conducted by officers of the Ogun I Area Command.
According to a statement issued by the Command Public Relations Officer, Zakari Chado, for the Acting Customs Area Controller, the officers 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.
Before reinforcement teams could arrive at the scene, the suspects reportedly mobilised a large number of armed hoodlums who launched a coordinated attack on the patrol team. In a deliberate attempt to obstruct law enforcement efforts, the attackers mounted heavy barricades at about nine strategic points, effectively blocking access routes and preventing timely reinforcement.
The assailants opened fire on the Customs officers and disabled a patrol vehicle by shooting out its tyres, creating what the Service described as a highly volatile and dangerous operational environment.
During the exchange, two Customs personnel sustained gunshot injuries and are currently receiving intensive medical care. Taking advantage of the multiple barricades and the chaos created, the smugglers fled the scene with the intercepted truck.
Investigations have since commenced to identify, track, and apprehend all individuals involved in the attack.
Reacting to the incident, the Acting Customs Area Controller of Ogun I Area Command, Deputy Comptroller Olukayode Afeni, condemned the attack, describing it as barbaric. He reaffirmed that violent resistance would not deter the Command or the Nigeria Customs Service from carrying out its statutory responsibility of combating smuggling and safeguarding national security.
Deputy Comptroller Afeni also called on traditional rulers and community leaders within the Command’s area of responsibility to caution their subjects against engaging in smuggling and attacks on security personnel. He warned that anyone found culpable would face the full weight of the law.
The Command further assured law-abiding members of the public of their safety and reiterated the Nigeria Customs Service’s unwavering commitment to border security, public health, and the enforcement of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.
I
