By Sabiu Abdullahi
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced with deep sorrow the tragic passing of Customs Assistant II Auwal Haruna.
According to a statement signed on Wednesday by Abdullahi Maiwada, Chief Superintendent of Customs and National Public Relations Officer, the unfortunate incident occurred during a confrontation at the Gamji Makaho checkpoint in the Dankama area of Katsina State on the morning of April 17, 2024.
The altercation arose when a team of customs officers from the Katsina Area Command sought to intercept a convoy of over fifty vehicles suspected of transporting goods illegally outside the country.
Displaying commendable courage, Haruna and his colleagues confronted the suspected economic saboteurs, leading to a clash with an enraged mob. Haruna was viciously attacked and fatally assaulted during the confrontation.
He has since been laid to rest according to Islamic rites in his hometown of Kayawa, in the Dutsi Local Government Area of Katsina State.
The Comptroller General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, along with the entire NCS fraternity, extends heartfelt condolences to the family of CA II Auwal Haruna.
The CGC vehemently condemns the senseless act of violence that resulted in Haruna’s untimely demise and assures the public of a thorough investigation to ensure justice is served.
Stating the daily challenges faced by customs officers in safeguarding the nation’s borders, the CGC shows the NCS’s unwavering commitment to stand with the fallen officer’s family during this period of profound grief.
Despite the tragic loss, the NCS remains resolute in its mission to combat illegal activities, particularly smuggling, and continues to prioritise Nigeria’s border integrity while ensuring the safety of citizens and dedicated customs personnel.