The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has issued a seven-day deadline for the Oduma community in Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State to return a pistol allegedly taken from its officers.
The ultimatum follows a violent confrontation on Wednesday between NDLEA agents and local youths, which resulted in injuries to at least four NDLEA personnel.
According to NDLEA Public Relations Officer, Daniel Obah, the clash happened when agents were carrying out arrests related to drug trafficking. During the incident, local youths reportedly attacked the officers, damaged their operational vehicle, and took the weapon. This escalation has heightened tensions between the NDLEA and the community.
Obah explained that the agents were performing a routine operation targeting drug dealers when they were assaulted. Four officers are hospitalized with serious injuries, while three others with minor injuries have been treated and released. The operational vehicle was significantly damaged.
Joshua Inebika-emi, the Youth President of Oduma, stated that the incident occurred because the community was not informed in advance about the arrests. He also reported that four local youths were taken to Yenagoa for medical treatment without family visitation. Inebika-emi affirmed the community’s stance against drug trafficking and called for intervention from the NDLEA and the Bayelsa State Government.
The NDLEA has dismissed these claims as false and malicious, asserting that the youths blocked the agency’s exit, forcibly took the seized items, and attacked the officers. The NDLEA’s backup team eventually intervened to prevent further violence.
NDLEA State Commander Kanu Chukwuemeka has demanded the return of the stolen pistol, the detained individuals, and the recovered items within seven days, warning that non-compliance will lead to legal consequences. The NDLEA also called for public support in the fight against drug abuse and crime in the region.