NDLEA Officer Drowns While Pursuing Drug Suspect in Delta

An incident involving the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) occurred in Obiaruku community, Ukwuani Local Government Area, Delta State, where an NDLEA officer drowned while chasing a suspected drug offender. The event took place over the weekend when NDLEA operatives apprehended a suspect allegedly transporting illicit drugs.

As they took him towards the River Ethiope Bridge for custody, the suspect escaped and jumped into the river. In an attempt to apprehend him, NDLEA officers entered the river, leading to a tragic outcome where one officer drowned.

Another officer who also entered the river was rescued and taken to a hospital for medical attention. The suspect managed to escape through the river during the incident.

The body of the drowned officer was later recovered and handed over to the NDLEA after traditional rites were performed, which included the provision of a goat and other items as required by the local community. Halilu Hamidi, the Delta State Commander of the NDLEA, referred inquiries to spokesperson Femi Babafemi, who confirmed the incident and stated that an investigation is ongoing.