The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), has expressed deep sorrow over the death of one of the Agency’s officers, Chief Narcotic Agent Sadiq Bako Mujahid, who was killed during an anti-drug operation in Rivers State. The tragic incident occurred during a raid on a notorious drug enclave known as Ama Hausa, located in Bonny Island, Rivers State.
The operation was carried out by NDLEA operatives as part of ongoing efforts to dismantle drug trafficking networks and curb the distribution of illicit substances across the country. The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Director of Media and Advocacy at NDLEA Headquarters, Abuja, Mr. Femi Babafemi.
According to the statement, the raid led to the arrest of six suspects and the recovery of a substantial cache of illicit drugs, including cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, skunk, and tramadol. Babafemi said the operation, which initially progressed successfully, took a violent turn when suspected drug dealers mobilised armed hoodlums to attack the NDLEA operatives in an attempt to obstruct the raid and facilitate the escape of suspects.
During the confrontation, Chief Narcotic Agent Sadiq Bako Mujahid sustained severe head injuries. Despite efforts to save his life, the officer later succumbed to the injuries, marking a painful loss for the Agency and the nation. Reacting to the incident, NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Marwa, described the fallen officer as a courageous and dedicated operative who paid the ultimate price in the line of duty. He conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased, as well as to officers and men of the Agency.
Marwa noted that the sacrifice of Chief Mujahid underscored the dangers faced daily by NDLEA personnel in their efforts to rid communities of drug-related crimes and protect public health and safety. He reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to sustaining the fight against drug trafficking and abuse, stressing that the death of the officer would not deter the NDLEA from carrying out its mandate.
“The bravery and dedication of our officers remain the backbone of our operations. The sacrifice of Chief Narcotic Agent Sadiq Bako Mujahid will not be in vain,” the NDLEA boss said. He also assured that those responsible for the attack would be tracked down and brought to justice, adding that the Agency would continue to work closely with other security agencies to ensure the safety of its personnel during operations.
The NDLEA has, in recent months, intensified operations across the country, targeting drug dens, trafficking routes, and criminal networks linked to the illicit drug trade. However, the Agency has repeatedly raised concerns over increasing resistance and violent attacks by criminal elements seeking to evade law enforcement.
The killing of Chief Mujahid has once again highlighted the risks associated with frontline security operations and has sparked renewed calls for greater protection and support for law enforcement officers engaged in the fight against drug abuse and trafficking. As investigations into the attack continue, the NDLEA said it remains resolute in honouring the memory of the fallen officer by strengthening its resolve to make Nigerian communities safer.
