The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun I Area Command, has confirmed a violent attack on its officers by suspected armed drug traffickers during an anti-smuggling operation in Ogun State, leaving two personnel critically injured.
The incident occurred on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at about 4:00 p.m. at Akokoro area of Iwoye, Imeko-Afon Local Government Area.
According to a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Zakari Chado, Customs officers acting on credible intelligence intercepted a 12-tyre truck suspected to be conveying a large consignment of illicit drugs and other prohibited items.
Before reinforcement teams could arrive, the suspects reportedly mobilised a large number of armed hoodlums who launched a coordinated attack on the patrol team. In a bid to obstruct law enforcement, the attackers erected heavy barricades at about nine strategic points, blocking access routes and preventing timely reinforcement.
The assailants opened fire on the officers and disabled a Customs patrol vehicle by shooting out its tyres, creating a volatile operational environment. During the exchange, two officers sustained gunshot injuries and are currently receiving intensive medical care.
Taking advantage of the multiple barricades, the smugglers fled the scene with the intercepted truck.
The statement said investigations have commenced to identify, track, and apprehend all individuals involved in the attack.
Reacting to the incident, the Acting Customs Area Controller, 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 mandate to combat smuggling and safeguard national security.
Afeni also called on traditional rulers and community leaders within the Command’s area of responsibility to caution their subjects against smuggling and attacks on security personnel, warning that offenders would face the full weight of the law.
He assured law-abiding members of the public of their safety and reiterated the Service’s unwavering commitment to border security, public health, and the enforcement of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.
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