NDLEA, Army officers ambushed by suspected drug barons in Edo

Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and personnel of the Nigerian Army came under attack from suspected drug barons in Ukpuje, Owan West Local Government Area of Edo State, the agency has confirmed.

In a statement issued on Monday in Benin City, the Edo State Commander of the NDLEA, Mr. Mitchel Ofoyeju, said the incident occurred in the early hours of October 27 during a joint operation aimed at destroying cannabis farms in the area.

According to Ofoyeju, the joint task force was ambushed by armed cultivators, who opened fire in a bid to resist the operation. The officers, however, responded swiftly, engaging the attackers in a gun duel and successfully repelling the assault.

The NDLEA commander noted that despite the confrontation, the team went on to destroy several hectares of cannabis plantations and seize large quantities of harvested substances from the site.

“The officers responded professionally and managed to retreat safely after the situation became hostile,” Ofoyeju explained.

He added that the operatives briefly exchanged fire with the attackers before making a tactical withdrawal to prevent further casualties.

The NDLEA commander confirmed that one officer sustained injuries after being struck by a sharp object during the assault, but had since received treatment and was in stable condition.

“We are thankful that no live was lost. The injured officer has been treated and is recovering.

“This development, however, will not deter us from our mission to rid Edo State of illicit drug activities,” Ofoyeju stated.

Ofoyeju said the Ukpuje raid was part of a broader crackdown on cannabis cultivation and trafficking in Edo, which remains a major hub for drug production in the country.

“We will continue to intensify operations in drug-prone areas like Ukpuje and ensure that those behind these criminal networks are brought to justice.

“The NDLEA, in collaboration with the Nigerian Army and other security agencies, is committed to restoring safety and order,” he said.

He further called on traditional and community leaders to support the agency’s efforts by providing useful intelligence that could help identify and arrest individuals involved in the illegal trade.

“Community cooperation is key. Together, we can build a safer, drug-free Edo State,” Ofoyeju added.