The Nigeria Customs Service has alleged that villagers in Katsina State are sheltering the individuals responsible for the killing of Customs Assistant II, Auwal Haruna.
Haruna was lynched at the Gamji Makaho checkpoint in the Dankama area of Katsina State on April 17, 2024, by suspected smugglers.
Daily Trust had reported that the customs officers had tried to stop a truck allegedly carrying smuggled items when he was killed following the death of one of the suspect who was allegedly shot by one of the officers
The National Public Relations Officer of the Service, Abdullahi Maiwada, in a statement issued on Wednesday said
intelligence available indicates that certain unpatriotic community members were harbouring suspected accomplices involved in the heinous crime.
Maiwada said the service is imploring the individuals to embrace patriotism by aligning with the law and refraining from condoning illegality, insisting that It is in the best interest of their communities and the nation to collaborate with law enforcement agencies to root out criminal elements and ensure justice prevails.
He said presently, 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.
“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,”
he added.
