Drama as gunmen attempt to seize IDPs food items at customs warehouse

Gunmen invaded the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) warehouse in Calabar, Cross River state, on Sunday, attempting  to cart away food items meant for delivery at internally displaced persons (IDP) camps across the country.

The suspects, who invaded the premises around 4am shot sporadically while trying to break into the warehouse inside the premises.

When NAN visited the scene of the incident, army personnel and policemen were seen condoning the area in search of the suspects.

Although the gunmen could not gain access into the premises, they destroyed a bus stationed in front of the warehouse, carting away the bags of rice loaded in the vehicle.

They also removed one air conditioner at the customs staff quarters close to the warehouse.

One of the officers, who spoke with NAN under the condition of anonymity, said two suspects had been arrested in connection with the incident.

“The incident happened at around 4am. The guys were heavily armed and they shot sporadically for a long time trying to find their way into the warehouse,” he said.

“We had to quickly call on the army and police for re-enforcement, as we speak, two suspects have been arrested and the search to arrest more is ongoing.”

Movement into the Calabar Free Trade Zone where the headquarters of the command is located was temporarily restricted.

Joseph Attah, spokesman of NCS, who confirmed the incident, adding that the gunmen could not break into the warehouse.