Ogun Customs attack thwarted as officers repel armed mob during anti-smuggling patrol, seizing 46 bags of foreign parboiled rice

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has confirmed a violent attack on its officers in Ogun State, the second in less than a week following a similar assault in Imeko-Afon Local Government Area.

Also read: Nigeria Customs Revenue Hits N7.2 Trillion in 2025

Deputy Superintendent of Customs Zakari Chado, spokesperson for the Ogun I Area Command, stated that officers conducting a routine anti-smuggling patrol at around 6:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 31, intercepted a convoy of motorcycles carrying 46 bags of 50kg foreign parboiled rice along a bush path in Alapoti, Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government Area.

As the team withdrew with the seized items, they were ambushed by a large mob armed with Dane guns, stones, bottles, and charms in an attempt to reclaim the rice.

The officers maintained discipline and repelled the attackers after a 30-minute confrontation.

During the clash, one assailant was injured and later died, while a suspect claiming ownership of the seized rice was arrested and is under investigation.

Deputy Comptroller Olukayode Afeni, Acting Customs Area Controller, condemned the attack, describing it as a deliberate attempt to undermine lawful enforcement and national security.

He assured residents that the service remains committed to public safety and the strict enforcement of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.

Also read: Nigeria Customs Service Appointments Boost Leadership Reforms

The command noted that recent assaults on personnel are linked to intensified anti-smuggling operations, which have resulted in significant seizures of prohibited items across the region.