Ogun Customs attack: Two officers in critical condition after drug traffickers’ ambush

By Ezurike Ugochukwu 

Suspected armed drug traffickers have attacked officers of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun I Area Command in Ogun State, leaving two personnel critically injured after they intercepted a truck carrying illicit drugs.

The incident occurred Thursday, January 22, 2026, at Akokoro, Iwoye, as officers acted on credible intelligence. The attackers, who mounted barricades and opened fire, fled with the truck after shooting out patrol vehicle tyres.

In a release by Zakari Chado Command Public Relations Officer(PRO) this Sunday 25 January, 2025, a 12-tyre truck suspected to be conveying a large consignment of illicit drugs and other prohibited items was intercepted unfortunately, before reinforcement teams could arrive, the suspects had mobilised a large number of armed hoodlums and launched a coordinated attack on the patrol team.

The report stated, “The attackers deliberately obstructed law enforcement by mounting heavy barricades at nine strategic points, blocking access routes and preventing timely reinforcement. They opened fire on the officers, disabling a Customs patrol vehicle by shooting out its tyres, and creating a volatile and dangerous operational environment.

“During the intense exchange, two Nigeria Customs Service officers sustained gunshot injuries and are currently receiving intensive medical care in critical condition. Meanwhile, the smugglers exploited the multiple barricades and escaped with the intercepted truck.

“Investigation has commenced to identify, track, and apprehend all those involved in the attack.”

Reacting to the incident, Deputy Comptroller Olukayode Afeni, Acting Customs Area Controller of Ogun I Area Command, condemned the attack as barbaric, stating that it won’t deter the Command from combating smuggling and protecting national security.

Afeni, appealed to traditional rulers and community leaders in the area to advise their subjects against smuggling and attacking security personnel, warning that offenders will face severe consequences.

He assured law-abiding citizens of their safety and reaffirmed the Nigeria Customs Service’s commitment to securing borders, protecting public health, and enforcing the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.