The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Edo says its operatives and that of the Nigerian Army came under heavy attack from suspected drug barons in Ukpuje, Owan West LGA of the state.
In a statement, Mitchel Ofoyeju, Edo NDLEA commander, said
the incident happened in the early hours of October 27 during a joint operation
to dismantle cannabis farms in the area.
He said the security team was ambushed by armed cultivators
who opened fire in an attempt to thwart the operation.
“The officers came under intense gunfire from drug
cultivators and traffickers as they advanced into Ukpuje,” he said.
He added that the team engaged the attackers briefly before
making a tactical withdrawal to prevent casualties.
“One of our officers sustained injuries after being struck
by a sharp object during the confrontation but has since received medical
attention and is now stable,” the NDLEA commander said.
Ofoyeju said the agency remains resolute in its efforts to
curb illicit drug activities in Edo.
“We are thankful that no life was lost. This incident will
not discourage us from pursuing our mandate to cleanse Edo state of narcotics,”
he said.
He noted that the Ukpuje operation was part of the NDLEA’s
broader strategy to combat cannabis cultivation and trafficking in Edo, which
he described as one of Nigeria’s major drug-producing areas.
“We will intensify operations in drug-prone zones like
Ukpuje and ensure that those behind these criminal networks are brought to
justice,” Ofoyeju added.
He said the NDLEA will continue to collaborate with the
Nigerian Army and other security agencies to restore safety and order in the
state.
Ofoyeju urged community leaders and residents to support the
agency with intelligence that could help identify and arrest those involved in
drug cultivation and trafficking.
“Community cooperation is key. Together, we can build a
safer, drug-free Edo state,” he said.
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