From Olanrewaju Lawal, Birnin Kebbi
Armed men have killed an officer of the Kebbi State Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and abducted another in the Koko-Besse area of the state.
The deceased officer, Assistant Superintendent of Customs I Dabo Umar, lost his life while Superintendent of Customs Babagana Abba Kabiru was abducted.
Public Relations Officer (PRO) Mohammed Tajuddeen Salisu, a Superintendent of Customs, confirmed this in a statement made available to newsmen in Birnin Kebbi on behalf of the Customs Area Controller, Iheanacho Ernest Ojike.
“It is with deep regret that we announce a distressing incident that occurred at our Koko Besse patrol base on Thursday, 25 July 2024, at approximately 21:00 hours,” the statement read. “A group of hoodlums attacked the patrol base, destroying property and targeting our officers in response to the recent boost to anti-smuggling activities in the area.”
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“After causing mayhem at the base, the armed men trailed and attacked two of our officers. One was shot, and the other abducted. Unfortunately, Assistant Superintendent of Customs I Dabo Umar lost his life while Superintendent of Customs Babagana Abba Kabiru was abducted, and a hefty ransom was demanded for his release.”
“The deceased officer’s body was retrieved and conveyed to Kaduna for burial according to Islamic rites.”
“While a manhunt has been launched for the killers and abductors, Customs Area Controller Iheanacho Ernest Ojike has commiserated with the family of the deceased and prayed for the release of the abducted officer. The Comptroller has sent delegations from the Command and prayed that God may grant them the fortitude to bear the loss.”
“We urge the public to provide any information that may lead to the safe return of the abducted officer, as other relevant security services are involved in the matter.”
“We will continue to provide updates as the situation develops. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the affected officers and the deceased.”