Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the Nigerian Army came under heavy attack by suspected drug barons in Ukpuje, Owan West Local Government Area of Edo State, during a joint anti-narcotics operation.
According to a statement issued by Mitchel Ofoyeju, the Edo State Commander of the NDLEA, the incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday, October 27, when officers launched a joint operation aimed at dismantling large cannabis farms and drug trafficking networks in the area.
Ofoyeju explained that as the team advanced into Ukpuje, they were ambushed by armed drug cultivators, who opened fire in a bid to resist arrest and halt the operation.
“The officers came under intense gunfire from drug cultivators and traffickers as they advanced into Ukpuje,” Ofoyeju said. “The security team engaged the attackers briefly before making a tactical withdrawal to prevent casualties.”
He added that one NDLEA officer was injured after being struck by a sharp object during the confrontation but had since received medical attention and was in stable condition.
“We are thankful that no life was lost. This incident will not discourage us from pursuing our mandate to cleanse Edo State of narcotics,” Ofoyeju assured.
The NDLEA commander emphasised that the Ukpuje operation was part of the agency’s ongoing efforts to combat cannabis cultivation and trafficking, describing Edo as one of Nigeria’s major drug-producing regions.
“We will intensify operations in drug-prone zones like Ukpuje and ensure that those behind these criminal networks are brought to justice,” he said.
Ofoyeju reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to working closely with the Nigerian Army and other security agencies to curb drug-related crimes and ensure public safety across the state.
He also appealed to community leaders and residents to cooperate with law enforcement agencies by providing intelligence that could lead to the arrest of those involved in illicit drug cultivation and trafficking.
“Community cooperation is key,” Ofoyeju stressed. “Together, we can build a safer, drug-free Edo State.”
The NDLEA reiterated its resolve to sustain its fight against narcotics despite the increasing risks faced by its personnel during field operations.
