In a significant breakthrough, the Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone ‘B’ has apprehended a notorious individual for impersonating a Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) officer as part of a broader crackdown on fraudulent activities within the agency.
Abubakar Ibrahim, a 28-year-old male, was arrested on 29 April 2024 at the Next Level hotel in Sokoto State, where he was found wearing an NCS uniform.
According to the Unit Public Relations Officer, Isah Sulaiman, the arrest followed a diligent investigation and collaboration between FOU ‘B’ operatives and the Nigerian Police Force, Sokoto State Command.
Sulaiman confirmed that Ibrahim had been impersonating and defrauding unsuspecting citizens under the guise of representing the NCS.
“The suspect was promptly handed over to the Customs Police Unit, Sokoto/Zamfara Command, for further investigation and subsequent legal action”, he stated.
Comptroller Ahmadu Shuaibu, the Comptroller of the Unit, expressed appreciation to the Sokoto State Command of the Nigerian Police for their cooperation and swift response in facilitating the arrest of the impersonator.
Comptroller Shuaibu reiterated the commitment of his unit to combat such fraudulent activities within the service.
In light of this incident, Comptroller Shuaibu issued a cautionary advisory to the public, urging them to be vigilant against social media accounts soliciting money for recruitment or auctions purportedly on behalf of the NCS.
He emphasised that the NCS does not engage in such practices and reaffirmed its determination to prosecute individuals involved in such deceitful acts.
To enhance transparency and credibility, Comptroller Shuaibu advised the public to follow only verified NCS social media accounts, such as “Nigeria Customs Service’ on Facebook, ‘@CustomsNG’ on Twitter, and other authenticated platforms, including a newly established WhatsApp Channel”. He emphasised
Additionally, members of the public were encouraged to seek clarification on any NCS-related matters by visiting the nearest Public Relations Unit of any Customs Command.
The arrest of Abubakar Ibrahim underscores FOU ‘B’ ongoing efforts to safeguard the integrity of the Nigeria Customs Service and maintain public trust in its operations.
Ibrahim is expected to face legal consequences as part of the unit’s rigorous enforcement against impersonators and fraudulent activities targeting the NCS.
