The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has accused villagers in Katsina State of harbouring the killers of Customs Assistant II, Auwal Haruna, who was lynched at the Gamji Makaho checkpoint in the Dankama area on April 17, 2024.
The incident occurred when customs officers attempted to stop a truck allegedly carrying smuggled items, leading to a confrontation where Haruna was killed.
According to Abdullahi Maiwada, the National Public Relations Officer of the Service, intelligence suggests that certain members of the community are sheltering suspected accomplices involved in the crime.
The NCS urged the individuals to embrace patriotism, align with the law, and refrain from condoning illegality.
He said the NCS, in close collaboration with other security agencies, is tirelessly working to apprehend the perpetrators of the reprehensible act and ensure they face the full consequences of the law.
His words: “The Comptroller General of Customs, CGC, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi asserts that violence against our officers is utterly unacceptable, and we will pursue every avenue to bring those responsible to justice.
“The safety of our personnel and the security of our borders remain paramount. We are committed to working with traditional rulers, government bodies, and sister agencies to combat this heinous crime against our personnel.
“Under the leadership of CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, the NCS reaffirms its unwavering commitment to combating smuggling and other cross-border crimes. The Service will not falter in its mission to uphold the law and protect the interests of the Nigerian people.
“The NCS urges the public to join hands in the fight against these brazen criminals.
“We implore the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities of these daredevil smugglers to the nearest customs formation. Together, we can create a safer environment for our officers and a more secure nation for all.”
