Ensuring justice for slain Customs Assistant Auwal Haruna is a top priority for the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, who reassured the family that every effort is being made to apprehend the perpetrators.
Haruna lost his life in a vicious attack by suspected smugglers on Customs operatives at Gamjin Makaho checkpoint along the Katsina-Dankama road on April 17, 2024.
CG Adeniyi affirmed that investigations are already underway within the NCS to identify and bring to justice those responsible for the heinous act. He emphasized the significance of each NCS personnel and vowed that the culprits will face the consequences of their actions.
Describing the incident as “heart-wrenching and unforgettable,” Adeniyi reiterated the commitment of the NCS to ensure the perpetrators are apprehended and duly punished.
Expressing deep sorrow over Haruna’s untimely demise, the Customs CG extended sympathies to the bereaved family and the entire Kayawa community.
Adeniyi recognized the daily risks encountered by NCS officers and praised their bravery, resilience, and dedication to duty.
“In collaboration with other security agencies, the NCS is actively engaged in efforts to apprehend the suspects and subject them to the full extent of the law,” he declared.
Mourning Haruna’s passing, Adeniyi assured his family of ongoing support from the NCS throughout and beyond their period of bereavement. He honored the fallen officer as a patriot who served the nation with distinction.
During a meeting with officials at the Government House in Katsina, Governor Dikko Umaru Radda urged security agencies in the state to swiftly capture the perpetrators of this heinous crime against the customs officer.
He underscored the imperative for thorough investigations by the security agencies to ensure that the guilty parties are held accountable and justice prevails.
“On behalf of myself and the people of Katsina State, I convey my condolences to the Comptroller General of Customs and the entire NCS personnel for this irreparable loss,” he expressed.
While acknowledging the positive outcomes of engagements between the Nigeria Customs Service and border communities in the state, the governor stressed the importance of maintaining these interactions for continued success.
He offered prayers to Allah for the soul of the departed, granting him Aljanna Firdaus “for sacrificing his life in defense of citizens’ lives and property”.