NDLEA officer shot dead during drug raid in Ondo

An operative of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), identified as Jide, has been shot dead by suspected drug traffickers in Ondo town, Ondo state.

TheCable understands that the incident occurred on Tuesday during a raid on a residential building in the Ita’nla area of the town.

According to a source, the NDLEA team had received intelligence that illicit drugs were being stored in the ceiling of the apartment.

“Some officers entered the building to recover the exhibits, while Officer Jide stayed outside on guard duty,” the source said.

“Suddenly, gunmen opened fire on him and he was shot in the neck. The officer was rushed to the hospital but was confirmed dead on arrival.”

Adebayo Solomon, NDLEA spokesperson in Ondo, was unavailable for comment when contacted.

However, Olayinka Ayanlade, police spokesperson in the state, confirmed the incident.

Ayanlade said four suspects have been arrested in connection with the killing, and a single-barrel gun recovered.

“We immediately deployed more officers to the scene,” Ayanlade said.

“Four prime suspects are in custody and investigation is ongoing in collaboration with the NDLEA to ensure those responsible are brought to justice.”