Suspected drug barons attack NDLEA, Army personnel in Edo
Gunmen suspected to be cannabis cultivators and traffickers have attacked a combined team of National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA and Army personnel at Ukpuje town, Owan West Local Government Area in Edo State.
DAILY POST reports that an officer of the NDLEA was shot on the hand during the attack.
The Edo State Commander of the agency, Mitchell Ofoyeju, who disclosed this in a statement made available to newsmen in Benin City on Monday, said the injured officer is receiving treatment in an undisclosed hospital.
Ofoyeju who also said the officer is expected to make a full recovery,
commended the bravery of his officers and the army personnel involved.
He said the officers came under attack in the early hours of Monday, October 27, 2025 at Ukpuje town, Owan West Local Government Area.
He alleged that the community is notorious for cannabis cultivation and trafficking.
“As the team advanced through the town, they encountered resistance from local cultivators, who ambushed them, resulting in an exchange of gunfire. The hostile environment forced the team to abort the operation and retreat for safety.
“Our mission here is to ensure that illegal drug activities are disrupted, particularly in areas notorious for drug cultivation. Although we faced resistance. We are grateful that no lives were lost, and our team was able to carry out the operation efficiently.
“The raid in Ukpuje is part of a broader strategy by the NDLEA to combat drug trafficking and promote community safety. Illicit cannabis cultivation has long been a challenge in the area,” he said.
Ofoyeju added that the agency has reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying efforts against drug cultivation and trafficking in Edo State.
He assured that the NDLEA will not relent in its pursuit of a drug-free society, noting that operations like these are crucial in their fight against narcotics.
He also added that the operation in Ukpuje underscored the ongoing collaboration between law enforcement agencies to tackle the growing menace of drug abuse and trafficking in the state.