The Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, has revealed how the security agency lost three of its officers and vehicles to an attack in Kebbi State.
He also raised concerns over the presence of the Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP) at the Babanna/Benin Republic border in Borgu LGA of Niger State, describing it as a serious threat to effective border patrol operations.
According to him, customs officers recently escaped an ambush from ISWAP after seizing Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, from smugglers operating at the Babanna border.
The smugglers are believed to be supplying fuel to terrorists and bandits.
Adeniyi made this known during a working visit to the Niger/Kogi Area Command of the Nigerian Customs Service.
Represented by the Assistant Comptroller General of Customs in charge of Finance, Administration, and Special Duties, and National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, Hussein Kehinde Ejibunu, the Comptroller General urged officers to remain vigilant and prepared for possible assaults from terrorists.
He also called for strengthened collaboration with sister security agencies to ensure seamless border patrol and combat the smuggling of crude oil across borders.
He disclosed that aircraft and other aerial surveillance equipment have been procured to support ground patrol operations.
“Three of our officers were recently killed in Bashaka, Kebbi State. They were given a surprise attack. They shelled them, burnt their vehicles and shot at all of them. Three officers died.
