Suspected drug barons have attacked the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) operatives and that of the Nigerian Army in Ukpuje, Owan West Local Government of Edo State.
The Edo State Commander of the NDLEA, Mitchel Ofoyeju, disclosed this in a statement issued on Monday, October 27, 2025.
Ofoyeju said the incident occurred in the early hours of Monday when the NDLEA operatives attempted to dismantle cannabis farms in the area.
Ofoyeju said the anti-narcotic officers were ambushed by armed cultivators who opened fire in an attempt to repel the operation.
He stated that the team engaged the attackers briefly before making a tactical withdrawal to avoid further casualties.
Ofoyeju noted: “As our team advanced into Ukpuje, they came under heavy attack from drug cultivators and traffickers in the community.
“The officers responded professionally and managed to retreat safely after the situation became hostile.”
The NDLEA commander revealed that one officer sustained injuries after being struck by a sharp object during the attack but has since received medical attention.
Ofoyeju added: “We are thankful that no live was lost. The injured officer has been treated and is recovering.
“This development, however, will not deter us from our mission to rid Edo State of illicit drug activities.”
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