The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Oyo/Osun Area Command, has commenced an investigation into an incident that reportedly occurred along the Osogbo axis on March 15, 2026, following a viral video circulating on social media and a statement issued by the Osun State Police Command.

In a statement, the command said it was saddened by the unfortunate development and acknowledged the public concern generated by the reports, assuring that efforts were underway to establish the full facts surrounding the incident.

According to preliminary information, officers attached to the command’s patrol team were on routine enforcement duty within the Osogbo area when they attempted to intercept suspected smuggled foreign-used vehicles, commonly known as “Tokunbo”.

The command explained that the operation was part of the Service’s statutory responsibility to suppress smuggling and enforce trade regulations.

While expressing regret over the loss of life recorded during the incident, the command extended its condolences to the family of the deceased.

“The Service recognises the sanctity of human life and remains committed to ensuring that its enforcement operations are conducted with the utmost sense of responsibility and professionalism”, the statement said.

The command added that a comprehensive investigation had been initiated to determine the precise circumstances surrounding the incident captured in the circulating footage.

The probe, it noted, would include a review of the operational mandates of the officers identified as Kolawole Suuti and Danjuma Samuel to ascertain whether their actions complied with the Service’s Rules of Engagement.

Customs further reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism and adherence to the rule of law, stressing that the agency maintains a strong working relationship with the Nigeria Police Force.

It also called for a harmonised and objective investigation that would consider all forensic elements, including the origin of the discharged ammunition.

The Oyo/Osun Area Command urged members of the public to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information that could escalate tensions between security agencies or within the community.

According to the command, the outcome of the investigation will guide appropriate actions in line with the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

pearl

By Pearl Ngwama

Pearl Ngwama is a prominent Nigerian media professional, an advocate of Nigeria Transport Sector development and Managing Director of JustAlive Communications Ltd, publishers of JustNet News. She is the convener of the annual Nigeria Transport Summit.

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