A joint security operation to destroy massive cannabis farms in Edo State was met with a violent ambush by suspected drug barons, leading to a fierce gun battle in the early hours of Friday, October 27.
The incident occurred in the dense forests of Ukpuje, in Owan West Local Government Area, an area notorious for large-scale cannabis cultivation. Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and soldiers from the Nigerian Army were advancing on the targeted farms when they were suddenly surrounded and attacked by armed cultivators.
According to the Edo State Commander of the NDLEA, Mitchell Ofoyeju, the security team came under “intense gunfire” from the drug traffickers in a bold attempt to thwart the mission.
“Our officers were ambushed by the armed cultivators who opened fire as they advanced into Ukpuje,” Commander Ofoyeju stated. “In the interest of safety and to prevent casualties, the team engaged the attackers briefly and made a tactical withdrawal from the zone.”
During the confrontation, one NDLEA officer was injured after being struck by a sharp object. The commander confirmed that the officer has since received medical attention and is in stable condition.
Commander Ofoyeju emphasized that the agency would not be deterred by the attack. He described Edo as one of Nigeria’s major drug-producing areas and affirmed that the operation in Ukpuje was a critical part of the NDLEA’s broader strategy to dismantle cannabis cultivation and trafficking networks in the 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 declared. “We will intensify operations in drug-prone zones like Ukpuje and ensure that those behind these criminal networks are brought to justice.”
The commander also highlighted the ongoing collaboration with the Nigerian Army and other security agencies to restore order and safety. He ended with an appeal to the public, urging community leaders and residents to support the agency with vital intelligence.
“Community cooperation is key to winning this fight,” Ofoyeju said. “Together, we can build a safer, drug-free Edo state.”