Death Of Teenager In Katsina: Nigeria Customs Absolves Officers Of Complicity

THE Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has debunked claims connecting its operatives to the accident that killed a teenager in the Jibia Border Area of Katsina State on Saturday,3 February 2024.

The Service, while condoling with the family of the deceased, however, absolved its personnel of complicity in the sad incident. 

The National Public Relations Officer of Customs (NPRO), CSC Abdullahi Maiwada, clarifying the circumstances under which the incident occurred, said in a press statement that, contrary to some press reports of the involvement of Customs officers, the J5 vehicle that claimed the victim’s life was a resultant effect of reckless driving on the part of the driver who, he said, is currently in Police custody, pending further investigation.

According to the NPRO, the vehicle was neither driven nor intercepted by Customs personnel during the reported incident, as reported in a section of the media. 

The statement reads thus: “Our attention has been drawn to the devastating loss of a young life in the Jibia Border area of Katsina State on Saturday, 3 February 2024. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of the innocent teenager whose life was tragically cut short.

“It is pertinent to address the misinformation circulating in the media regarding the reported killing of the teenager by a reckless driver of a J5 vehicle. The Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone B, headquartered in Kaduna, covers 10 states plus the FCT, including Katsina, where the Jibia border is situated.

“We wish to clarify that our operatives neither drove the J5 vehicle nor intercepted it during the reported incident, contrary to some press allegations of the involvement of our officers. Preliminary reports suggest that the J5 vehicle was transporting soya beans, and the driver is currently in Police custody pending further investigation.

“The Comptroller General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, alongside the officers and men of the service, expresses profound sympathy with the bereaved. 

“The CGC reiterates his unwavering commitment to fostering harmonious community relations and conducting anti-smuggling operations without casualties. He also urges members of the public to adhere to Government directives and cooperate with law enforcement agencies to maintain peace and security in our communities.

“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”.

Eighteen-Eleven Media