The Sokoto/Kebbi/Zamfara Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, on Monday confirmed the death of one Shu’aibu Lawal in a clash between its operatives and smugglers on Illela-Gwadabawa-Sokoto road. The Comptroller of the command, Mr Sani Madugu, disclosed this at a news conference in Sokoto. Madugu said, “The regrettable clash happened when operatives of the service pursued some persons smuggling rice from Illela to Sokoto. “The 35-year old man died as a result of gunshot wounds sequel to an ‘accidental discharge’ from an operative of the service.” The Comptroller further stated that any officer found wanting upon the conclusion of investigation would be severely dealt with, stressing the need for the sustenance of the existing cordial relations between the service and its host communities in the command. “All the officers who were present at the scene of the incident have been handed over to the State Police Command for further investigations. “An officer, who was attacked by some residents of the area where the clash occurred, is lying critically ill at the Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto,” Madugu added.