Edo: NDLEA, Soldiers Ambushed In Cannabis Raid — One Officer Injured

An officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) was injured on Monday when a joint team of NDLEA personnel and soldiers came under attack during a drug raid in Ukpuje, Owan West Local Government Area of Edo State.

Edo State Commander of NDLEA, Mitchell Ofoyeju, who confirmed the incident in a statement, said the operation was aimed at dislodging a network of cannabis cultivators and traffickers operating in the community, which has been notorious for such activities.

He disclosed that the team was ambushed by suspected local cultivators, triggering a brief exchange of gunfire and forcing the operatives to retreat temporarily before regrouping.

“Unfortunately, one of our officers was struck on the hand by a sharp object during the encounter. He has received medical attention and is expected to recover fully,” Ofoyeju said.

He emphasised that no life was lost in the operation, adding that the raid formed part of a broader crackdown on illicit drug activities across Edo.

“Although we faced resistance, we are grateful there was no loss of life. Our mandate to dismantle drug trafficking networks remains unchanged,” he stated.

Ofoyeju noted that several coordinated raids have been carried out in recent months, resulting in arrests, convictions and public sensitisation on the dangers of drug abuse.

“We will not relent in the push for a drug-free society. Operations like this are crucial to curbing narcotics proliferation,” he added.