The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit, Zone B, has dismissed as false the claim that its operatives caused an accident in Jibia town, Jibia Local Government of Katsina State.
The spokesman of the unit, Mr Isa Suleiman, stated this in a statement issued on Monday in Katsina.
He said that the incident occurred when a J5 bus driver who was trying to dodge customs operatives, rammed into some bystanders and hit a teenager around Tudun Wada Primary School in the town.
Suleiman said, “I am aware that we have a team along the Jibia border that is within 40km radius.
“The officials of the NCS didn’t cause the incident you are referring to as alleged.
“It was caused by the reckless driving of the driver of that J5 bus.”
He said that some unscrupulous elements were hell-bent on twisting the narration.
Suleiman added, “It is a fact that smugglers are unhappy with our resolve to ensure that illicit items do not find their way into the country.
“These smugglers are looking for any opportunity to smear the NCS name through a false campaign built on mischief.
“We are a service of repute and we sympathize with the families of the victims and an investigation is ongoing to unravel the cause of the incident in collaboration with relevant agencies.”
Suleiman vowed that whoever is found guilty would face the consequences of his actions.
He, however, said, “All campaigns of calumny by smugglers will not deter the unit from enforcing the directives of the Federal Government.
“We are more determined to make the Zone unbearable for smugglers.”
Recall that some national dailies on Monday reported that some customs operatives allegedly caused the death of a teenager during the Jibia anti-smuggling operation on Saturday.
–——-Customs CG Seek Cooperation Of Communities In Anti-Smuggling Operations——
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Customs Service is also seeking the cooperation of communities to ensure the success of its anti-smuggling operations.
The Comptroller General of the NCS, Adewale Adeniyi, made the call in a statement issued by the National Public Relations Officer of the service, Chief Superintendent of Customs, Abdullahi Maiwada, in Abuja.
He restated the service’s commitment to fostering harmonious community relations and conducting anti-smuggling operations without casualties.
“I also urge members of the public to adhere to Government directives and cooperate with law enforcement agencies, to maintain peace and security in our communities,” he said.
Adeniyi was reacting to reports that a teenager was crushed by customs operatives in the Jibia Border Area of Katsina State on Feb. 3.
The CG of Customs assured the public that the matter would be handled appropriately, saying the driver of the vehicle is currently in Police custody pending further investigation.
“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,” he said.
