Tensions erupted on Thursday between operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and police officers at the Ekeki Police Division in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, over the attempted arrest of a suspected drug dealer, causing panic in the area.
The Incident
Reports indicate that NDLEA operatives were in the vicinity to apprehend a woman suspected of being involved in drug trafficking. Before proceeding with the operation, they had officially logged the entry into police records at the Ekeki Police Division. However, during the operation, police officers reportedly obstructed the NDLEA team, leading to a confrontation.
The altercation escalated quickly, with gunshots being fired, alarming residents and causing disruption in the neighborhood. Two NDLEA operation vehicles were observed with deflated tyres, allegedly as a result of gunfire from the police.
NDLEA’s Statement
Howells Obah, spokesperson for the Bayelsa NDLEA, confirmed the incident, asserting that the agency’s operatives followed standard procedure during the raid.
“Our team made the necessary entry at the police station before conducting the operation. However, we learned that the suspect is the wife of a policeman and is believed to have been protected by some officers,” Obah stated. He further revealed that two of their vehicles were damaged by gunfire, and efforts were being made to prevent the situation from escalating.
Police Response
Musa Mohammed, spokesperson for the Bayelsa State Police Command, also confirmed the clash but refrained from providing specific details at the time. He stated, “I am going there now to find out what happened.”
This altercation highlights tensions between law enforcement agencies and raises concerns about possible interference in drug-related investigations. Both agencies are expected to carry out further investigations to determine the cause and extent of the clash.
