The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Edo has confirmed a heavy attack on its operatives and Nigerian Army personnel in Owan West Local Government Area of the state by drug barons.
A statement by 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.
