The Nigeria Police Force has pledged to ensure the highest level of forensic diligence in the investigation of the shooting that led to the death of a citizen in Osun.
The Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Placid, said this in a statement on Monday in Abuja.
He said the Nigeria Police Force was aware of the ongoing public interest and the recent statement by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) regarding the unfortunate shooting.
According to him, while the Nigeria Police Force recognises the statutory duties of the NCS in anti-smuggling operations, the sanctity of human life remains the highest priority of the state.
“The Inspector-General of Police (I-G) has noted the NCS’s call for a harmonised investigation.
“To this end, the Nigeria Police Force assures its sister agency and the public that the investigation will be conducted with the highest level of forensic diligence,” he said.
Placid said the suspects, arrested in connection with the incident, would remain in police custody to facilitate a transparent inquiry.
He said the exhibits recovered, a Beretta pistol, Breech No. 125024 and 9mm ballistic evidence were undergoing specialised analysis.
The police spokesman said the idea was to synchronise the facts with the operational Rules of Engagement (ROE).
He said the Nigeria Police and NCS had maintained a robust, professional relationship, adding that the incident was being treated as a matter of individual professional accountability.
Placid urged the public to refrain from sensationalising the event as a conflict between the two agencies.
The police spokesman said the Nigeria Police Force and NCS were united in the pursuit of justice for the deceased.
Placid extended the deepest condolences of the Nigeria Police Force to the family of the victim
