Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have came under attack by hoodlums suspected to be cultists while carrying out a drug raid in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
According to eyewitnesses, the armed hoodlums attempted to disarm the anti-narcotics officers from the Rivers State command on Tuesday evening and free a suspected drug kingpin who had already been handcuffed.
The scene reportedly turned chaotic as gunshots rang out, forcing commuters and residents in the busy area to scamper for safety.
READ ALSO: NDLEA Arrests Socialite Pretty Mike, Over 100 Others At Lagos Club
Two of the assailants were said to have sustained gunshot injuries and were taken away by their accomplices.
Confirming the incident in a statement, the state command of the agency clarified that its operatives had acted on credible intelligence around 4:30 p.m. on October 28, 2025, leading to the arrest of three suspects.
It said the suspects included one identified as Okpe, with about 12 kilograms of suspected cannabis sativa.
The agency said a group of hoodlums stormed the scene in an attempt to obstruct the arrest, pelting officers with stones and bottles.
The statement, signed by the NDLEA’s Public Affairs Officer, CSN Ugo Olisaemeka-Iyi, noted that the operatives responded with warning shots to disperse the attackers and succeeded in whisking the suspects and the exhibits away safely.
Investigation Ongoing
The agency commended the bravery and professionalism of its personnel during the operation.
The State Commander, CN Ahmed Mamuda, assured the public that the NDLEA would not be intimidated by criminal elements and remains committed to ridding Rivers State of illicit drugs.
He also appealed for public cooperation and vigilance in supporting the agency’s anti-narcotics operations.
Reports indicate that this is not the first time NDLEA officials have come under attack in the area.
Similar incidents were recorded in April 2023 and again two weeks ago, when operatives faced violent resistance from suspected cult groups attempting to rescue drug suspects.
The NDLEA says investigations are ongoing, and the arrested suspects are providing useful information expected to aid further operations.
