An operative of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has been killed during a raid on a suspected drug enclave in Bonny Island, Rivers State, where six alleged traffickers were arrested and large quantities of illicit substances recovered.
The operation, conducted last Friday at the Ama Hausa area of Bonny Island, resulted in the seizure of cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, cannabis (skunk), and tramadol, according to a statement issued by the agency’s spokesperson.
The agency disclosed that the exercise turned violent when armed hoodlums, allegedly mobilised by the suspects, attacked NDLEA operatives during the raid.
Chief Narcotic Agent Sadiq Bako Mujahid sustained severe head injuries in the confrontation. He was rushed to the Bonny Island General Hospital, where he was later confirmed dead.
Despite the attack, NDLEA operatives completed the operation and apprehended the six targeted suspects, including the alleged ring leader, Genesis George Benson. The agency accused Benson of mobilising the violent resistance that led to the fatal assault on the officer.
Other suspects arrested are ThankGod Okon, Shamsudden Isah, Muhammed Musa, Adamu Muhammed, and Muhammed Yusuf.
Reacting to the incident, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (retd.), commended the officers for their courage and professionalism in the face of armed resistance.
He described the late Mujahid as a disciplined and dedicated officer who died in active service, and extended condolences to his family, colleagues, and the NDLEA Rivers State Command.
“The gallantry displayed by our men under attack underscores their unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation from the menace of illicit drugs,” Marwa said. “Even in the face of violence, they ensured the suspects were arrested and the drugs recovered.”
He warned that attacks on NDLEA personnel would be treated as attacks on the Nigerian state, stressing that the agency remains resolute in its mandate to dismantle drug trafficking networks.
The NDLEA said investigations are ongoing and the suspects will be charged to court upon conclusion of preliminary inquiries.
