A young boy was struck by a stray bullet after violence broke out during an operation carried out by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency in Ikang, Bakassi Local Government Area of Cross River State.
The raid reportedly led to the arrest of two suspected drug dealers and the seizure of illegal substances. However, tension escalated when a crowd allegedly confronted the NDLEA operatives, causing panic across the community.
According to an eyewitness who spoke anonymously, residents fled for safety after gunshots erupted during the clash.
“Gunshots were suddenly heard during the confrontation, and people started running. After the situation calmed down, it was discovered that a young boy had been hit by a stray bullet and was lying on the ground before he was rushed to the hospital,” the witness said.
The incident reportedly left many residents confused about how the confrontation unfolded.
Speaking on Thursday, NDLEA spokesperson in Cross River, Sebastian Lebo, confirmed that the agency’s operatives were attacked while carrying out the raid but managed to apprehend the suspects.
“It is true that our officers were at Bakassi for an operation. The two dealers that were targets were arrested with good quality exhibits and are now in custody. Our officers came under mob attack and unfortunately there was an injury,” Lebo stated.
He added that the injured boy is currently receiving treatment at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital and is responding well to medical care.
Lebo also said the operation was successfully completed despite the attack, with exhibits linked to the suspects recovered by the operatives.
