Crime

Gunmen Attack Customs Base in Kebbi; See Numbers of officer killed and kidnapped

Published by Tope Fakinlede on July 29th, 2024.

Gunmen Attack Customs Base in Kebbi; See Numbers of officer killed and kidnapped

Suspected hoodlums have attacked a Nigeria Customs Service patrol base in Koko, Kebbi State, resulting in the death of one officer and the abduction of another.

In a press release issued on Sunday evening, Mohammed Tajuddeen Salisu, Public Relations Officer for the Kebbi Area Command, detailed the incident which occurred on Thursday, July 25, 2024, around 9:00 PM.

Salisu reported that a group of armed assailants targeted the Koko Besse patrol base, causing significant property damage and directly confronting the officers. The attack followed recent enhancements in anti-smuggling measures in the area.

During the attack, the assailants pursued and assaulted two officers. Assistant Superintendent of Customs I, Dabo Umar, was killed, while Superintendent of Customs Babagana Abba Kabiru was kidnapped. The attackers have reportedly demanded a substantial ransom for Kabiru’s release.

The body of the deceased officer has been transported to Kaduna for burial in accordance with Islamic traditions.

The Customs Area Controller, Iheanacho Ernest Ojike, extended condolences to the family of the deceased and expressed hope for the safe return of the abducted officer.

Authorities have launched a manhunt for those responsible for the attack and are working with other security services to resolve the situation. The public is encouraged to provide any information that could assist in locating and rescuing the abducted officer.

Updates will be provided as more information becomes available. The thoughts and prayers of the Nigeria Customs Service are with the families of the affected officers.