Hoodlums suspected to be drug barons have attacked a combined team of National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and army personnel in Edo State.
An officer of the NDLEA reportedly sustained injury in the attack that occurred at Ukpuje town, Owan West Local Government Area of the state.
The combined team was said to be on its way to the community notorious for cannabis cultivation and trafficking, to ensure that illegal drug activities are disrupted when they were attacked by suspected drug barons.
The state’s NDLEA Commander, Mitchell Ofoyeju, confirmed the incident, saying no life was lost in the attack, but an officer sustained an injury.
He said the team encountered resistance from local cultivators, who ambushed them as they advanced through the town to cannabis plantations, resulting in an exchange of gunfire.
“Unfortunately, one officer was struck by a sharp object on the hand. This officer has since received medical attention and is expected to make a full recovery.”
Ofoyeju, in a statement, said the development forced the team to abort the operation and retreat for safety.
According to him, the raid in Ukpuje is part of a broader strategy by the NDLEA to combat drug trafficking and promote community safety.
Ofoyeju, who restated the agency’s commitment to intensifying efforts against drug cultivation and trafficking in the state, said the command will not relent in its pursuit of a drug-free society.
