An officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency sustained an injury when a combined team of NDLEA and Army personnel came under attack on Monday at Ukpuje town, Owan West Local Government Area of Edo State.

The state NDLEA Commander, Mitchell Ofoyeju, who disclosed this in a statement, said the community is notorious for cannabis cultivation and trafficking.

He explained that as the team advanced through the town, they encountered resistance from local cultivators who ambushed them, leading to an exchange of gunfire.

The team was forced to temporarily abort the operation before proceeding.

Ofoyeju said one officer was struck by a sharp object on the hand but had since received medical attention and was expected to make a full recovery.

The statement read, “A combined team of NDLEA and Army personnel came under attack on Monday at Ukpuje town, Owan West Local Government Area of Edo State.

“Unfortunately, one officer was struck by a sharp object on the hand. This officer has since received medical attention and is expected to make a full recovery.

“I commend the bravery of our officers and the Army personnel involved. 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 life was lost, and our team was able to carry out the operation efficiently.”

Ofoyeju reaffirmed that the NDLEA would intensify efforts against drug cultivation and trafficking in Edo State.

“We will not relent in our pursuit of a drug-free society. Operations like these are crucial in our fight against narcotics,” he added.

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.

The operation underscored the ongoing collaboration between law enforcement agencies to tackle the growing menace of drug abuse and trafficking in the state.

In recent months, the agency has also raided several spots known for illicit drug sales, arrested dealers, secured convictions against traffickers, and carried out sensitisation programmes on the dangers of drug abuse.