Police Launch Forensic Investigation Into Fatal Osogbo Shooting

Police Launch Forensic Investigation Into Fatal Osogbo Shooting

The Nigeria Police Force has launched a forensic investigation following the death of a resident in Osogbo, Osun State, during a customs anti-smuggling operation on Sunday, March 15, 2026. The inquiry aims to determine the exact circumstances that led to the shooting and ensure accountability.

The incident occurred in the Dada Estate area, where officers of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Oyo/Osun Area Command were conducting a routine patrol targeting suspected smuggled vehicles. During the operation, a confrontation with civilians escalated, resulting in gunfire that led to a fatality. Details of who fired first remain under investigation.

Two customs officers, Kolawole Suuti and Danjuma Samuel, have been detained by the police to assist in the inquiry. Investigators have recovered a Beretta pistol (Breech Number 125024) and 9mm ballistic evidence, which are now undergoing specialised forensic analysis to determine the sequence of events and whether the use of force complied with the Rules of Engagement (ROE).

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Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, confirmed that the investigation, led by the Osun State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), will adhere to the highest forensic standards. He emphasized that while the NCS performs legitimate anti-smuggling duties, the protection of human life remains paramount.

The NCS also called for a joint, transparent investigation and urged the public to avoid spreading unverified information, stressing that the incident should not be sensationalized as an inter-agency conflict.

Both agencies have expressed their commitment to cooperate fully with the investigation, while extending condolences to the family of the deceased. Authorities are also appealing to members of the public with credible information to come forward to assist the forensic process.

The incident underscores the need for stricter operational protocols during enforcement activities and has reignited discussions on security, accountability, and civilian protection during anti-smuggling operations in Nigeria.

Police Launch Forensic Investigation Into Fatal Osogbo Shooting