Customs Investigates Officers Over Anti-Smuggling Incident In Oshogbo

By Stella Okocha 

The Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, Oyo/Osun Area Command have began a thorough investigation on the unfortunate incident that took place on Saturday, March 15, 2026, along the Oshogbo axis, based on the video circulating the social media space.

In a press statement signed by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Assistant Superintendent of Customs, Abdulmalik Akintola, explains that the Command recognizes the public concern generated by these reports and considers it essential to provide a professional perspective while efforts are underway to establish the full facts.

According to the statement, “It is pertinent to note that the Command deeply regrets the loss of life recorded in the incident and extends its sincere condolences to the family of the deceased. The Service recognises the sanctity of human life and remains committed to ensuring that its enforcement operations are conducted with the utmost sense of responsibility and professionalism”.

According to the Command, preliminary information indicates that officers attached to the Oyo/Osun Area Command patrol team were on routine enforcement duty within the Osogbo axis, attempting to intercept suspected smuggled foreign-used vehicles (Tokunbo); which aligns with the Service’s statutory responsibility to suppress smuggling and enforce trade regulations.

Identifying Kolawole Suuti and Danjuma Samuel, as officers who are connected to the incident as reflected in the circulating footage; they are now subject to an audit of their operational mandates, to determine if their actions and the tactical approach used adhered to the Service’s strict Rules of Engagement (ROE).

The statement reads that while NCS remains a disciplined and professional organization, committed to upholding the rule of law and protecting lives; they have also called for a joint, objective investigation involving the Nigeria Police Force, based on the forensic variables, and origin of the discharged ammunition for more inquiry.

“While we maintain a strong working relationship with the Nigeria Police Force, we urge for a harmonized and objective investigation that accounts for all forensic variables, including the origin of the discharged ammunition”.

The Oyo/Osun Area Command urges members of the public to remain calm and allow due process to take its course; stating that they advise against the spread of unverified information that could incite unnecessary tension between sister security agencies or within the community.

The Command believes that the outcome of this investigation will guide necessary actions in accordance with the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.