The Nigeria Customs Service has announced the death of its officer, Auwal Haruna, a Customs Assistant 11 attached to the Katsina Area Command.

Announcing his death in a statement on Wednesday, the National Public Relations Officer of the service, Abdullahi Maiwada, said the incident occurred at the Gamji Makaho checkpoint in the Dankama area of Katsina State on Monday.

He explained that trouble started when a team of officers attached to Katsina Area Command attempted to intercept a convoy of over 50 vehicles suspected to be illegally transporting goods out of the country.

“The melee was triggered when a team of customs officers attached to Katsina Area Command attempted to intercept a convoy of over 50 vehicles transporting goods suspected of illegal movement outside the country.

"Haruna and his fellow officers exhibited remarkable courage in their duty to thwart these audacious economic saboteurs. Their actions sparked a confrontation with an enraged mob who viciously attacked Auwal Haruna,” Maiwada stated.

He added that the deceased had since been laid to rest according to Islamic rites in his hometown, Kayawa, in Dutsi Local Government Area of Katsina State.

According to Maiwada, the Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, and the entire NCS fraternity extend heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased.

He noted that the comptroller condemned the act of violence that led to the untimely demise of the officer.

He promised that a comprehensive investigation into the tragic incident would be done to ensure justice is served.

“The CGC underscores the perilous challenges officers face in their daily mission to safeguard the nation’s borders. Under his stewardship, he would ensure that the NCS stands firmly united with the fallen officer’s family during this period of profound grief,” he said.

He reaffirmed the service’s unwavering commitment to border security.

“The NCS remains steadfast in its efforts to combat illegal activities such as smuggling, prioritising Nigeria’s border integrity while ensuring the safety of citizens and dedicated customs personnel,” he concluded.

Culled from PUNCH