Nigeria Customs deny officers involvement in death of teenager in Kastina state

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) have denied involvement of its men in the death of a young boy who was reported crushed in Jibia border area of Katsina state by an alleged reckless driver, said to have been arrested by the police.

Penpushing reports that National Public Relations Officer of the service Abdullahi Maiwada made the clarification in a statement on Monday, as the authorities expressed deep sympathy over the loss of the teenager

‘Our attention has been drawn to the devastating loss of a young life in the Jibia Border Area of Katsina State on Saturday, February 3, 2024. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of the innocent teenager whose life was tragically cut short’, Maiwada wrote

The Chief Superintendent of Customs in the statement said the service said it was pertinent to address the misinformation circulating in the media regarding the reported killing of the teenager by a reckless driver of a J5 vehicle.

‘It is pertinent to address the misinformation circulating in the media regarding the reported killing of the teenager by a reckless driver of a J5 vehicle. The Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone B, headquartered in Kaduna, covers 10 states plus the FCT, including Katsina, where the Jibia border is situated’.

‘We wish to clarify that our operatives neither drove the J5 vehicle nor intercepted it during the reported incident, contrary to some press allegations of the involvement of our Officers. Preliminary reports suggest that the J5 vehicle was transporting soya beans, and the driver is currently in Police custody pending further investigation’.

‘The Comptroller General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, alongside the officers and men of the service, expresses profound sympathy with the bereaved. The CGC reiterates his unwavering commitment to fostering harmonious community relations and conducting anti-smuggling operations without casualties’

Penpushing further reports that the statement equally urged members of the public to adhere to government directives and cooperate with law enforcement agencies to maintain peace and security in our communities.

‘In this moment of grief and loss, we appeal for calmness from all stakeholders. We deeply appreciate the ongoing cooperation extended by the Border communities as we work together to address challenges and promote safety and prosperity for all’’

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