Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has expressed its sympathy over the demise of a teenager in Katsina State.
This comes after the deceased was knocked down by a vehicle and died in the process on Saturday.
Meanwhile, NCS in a statement issued by its National Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Maiwada on Monday debunked the reports making the rounds that the ‘J5 vehicle’ involved in the incident belongs to the service.
“Our attention has been drawn to the devastating loss of a young life in the Jibia Border Area of Katsina State on Saturday, February 3, 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,” the statement reads in part.
NCS further stated that its operatives neither drove the J5 vehicle nor intercepted it during the reported incident.
Customs also said preliminary reports revealed that the J5 vehicle was transporting soya beans, adding that the driver is currently in Police custody pending further investigation.
Similarly, the Comptroller General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi reiterated his unwavering commitment to fostering harmonious community relations and conducting anti-smuggling operations without casualties.
CGC Adeniyi also urged members of the public to adhere to government directives and cooperate with law enforcement agencies to maintain peace and security in all the communities.
He appealed to all stakeholders to remain calm and extended gratitude to the border communities for joining the service in addressing challenges and promoting safety & prosperity for Nigerians.
