In the wake of a daring assault on the Yauri outstation, the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, and the police have launched a joint effort to apprehend the perpetrators.
The incident, which occurred late on Thursday, March 21, 2024, saw a coordinated attack by suspected smugglers, resulting in a showdown between law enforcement and criminal elements.
Superintendent of Customs, Kebbi Area Command, Mohammed Tajudeen Salisu disclosed this in a statement released to the journalists. He revealed that the combined team of Yauri outstation and surveillance units received intelligence regarding suspected smuggling activities at Yauri Waterside around 11:10 PM.
The authorities seized 41 bags of foreign parboiled rice at the scene, which were promptly secured and transported to the outstation for further processing.
However, the success of the operation was swiftly overshadowed by a violent reprisal. Enraged by the interception, a mob, allegedly comprised of smugglers and their associates, launched an assault on the outpost, resorting to mob tactics to overwhelm the authorities.
Despite their efforts, the Officer in Charge sustained a hand injury during the confrontation. Additionally, one AK47 rifle was temporarily seized by the attackers but was swiftly recovered. Shockingly, 29 out of the 41 seized bags of rice were brazenly snatched by the assailants.
The mob proceeded to inflict extensive damage upon the outstation, vandalizing property including the personal vehicle of the OiC, air conditioning units, furniture, windows, and doors, causing significant disruption to operational capabilities.
Seeking to defuse tensions and chart a path forward, the Kebbi State Governor convened a closed-door meeting with the Customs Area Controller. This dialogue aimed to restore order and security in the region following the brazen attack.
The Customs Area Controller, Iheanacho Ernest Ojike, has been in communication with the Commissioner of Police. Several arrests have already been made, and an investigation is underway to apprehend and prosecute all those involved in the criminal act.
