The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Edo State has reported that its operatives, alongside officers of the Nigerian Army, came under heavy attack from suspected drug barons in Ukpuje, Owan West Local Government Area.
In a statement, Mitchel Ofoyeju, the Edo NDLEA commander, said the incident occurred in the early hours of October 27 during a joint operation aimed at dismantling cannabis farms in the area.
According to him, the security team was ambushed by armed cultivators who opened fire in an attempt to halt the operation.
“The officers came under intense gunfire from drug cultivators and traffickers as they advanced into Ukpuje,” he said.
He noted that the operatives exchanged fire briefly with the attackers before executing a tactical withdrawal to avoid 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 stated.
Ofoyeju reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to eliminating illicit drug operations across Edo State.
“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 added.
He further explained that the Ukpuje raid forms part of the NDLEA’s broader strategy to tackle cannabis cultivation and trafficking in Edo, which he described as one of Nigeria’s leading drug-producing regions.
“We will intensify operations in drug-prone zones like Ukpuje and ensure that those behind these criminal networks are brought to justice,” Ofoyeju said.
He also noted that the NDLEA will continue working closely with the Nigerian Army and other security agencies to restore peace and order in the state.
“Community cooperation is key. Together, we can build a safer, drug-free Edo State,” he added.