Ogun 1 Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service, yesterday, said a viral video depicting shooting by its officers was recorded on Saturday, around the Lafenwa/Enu Gada axis of Abeokuta, and that the officers had been repelling an attack.

Public Relations Officer, Hammed Oloyede, said the operatives had been evacuating smuggled goods from two faulty vehicles when they came under fire from hoodlums mobilised by the smugglers.

In a statement, he explained that the seriousness of the attack, which happened around 7:15 a.m., forced the officers to call for reinforcement, after which they successfully moved the seized goods to the command’s warehouse in Abeokuta.

“On December 16, 2023, along the Lanfewa/Enu Gada axis of Ogun State, the operatives of Ogun 1 Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service, while evacuating some smuggled goods from two faulty vehicles used as means of conveyance, came under attack by hoodlums who were suspected to have been mobilised by smugglers of the unwholesome goods,” the statement noted.

“During the melee that ensued at about 0715 hours, our operatives repelled the attack. They left the scene with the secured seizure and prevented the hoodlums from further attack till they finally exited the area. The seizure was successfully conveyed to the government warehouse at Customs House, Abeokuta, without any casualty.”

According to the statement, the command, under the leadership of Acting Customs Area Controller, Ahmadu Shuaibu, values the lives of host communities and frowns at arbitrary use of firearms. It noted, however, that in situations where there’s severe threat to life, officers might be forced to apply rules of engagement for self-protection.

It added: “The command regrets the compelling and unfortunate situation that might have put residents of the axis and the general public in fear. While carrying out our lawful duty, we shall not renege on our effort to ensure the safety of the good people of Ogun State. Our operatives shall continue to operate within the ambit of the law, and in conformity with the rules of engagement.

“It is pertinent to inform you that the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023 frowns at obstruction, molestation, or assault of officers on lawful duty, with the infliction of punishment on offenders such as conviction to a fine of N5 million, and imprisonment for five years or both.

“Also, Section 226 of the NCSA empowers customs operatives to carry out patrols freely, which applies to our anti-smuggling operations in Ogun State.”