TheCable

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) says it is investigating a shooting incident involving its officers in Delta state.

According to a statement on Saturday by Femi Babafemi, NDLEA spokesperson, a stray bullet hit a young person after operatives of the agency raided a drug joint in the Okpanam area of Asaba, the Delta capital.

Babafemi said the victim died in the hospital while undergoing treatment.

Babafemi added that Buba Marwa, NDLEA chairman, after receiving a briefing from the Delta command of the agency, “set up a panel of top officials” to commence an “on-the-spot investigation of the unfortunate incident” so as to establish the actual facts about the case.

“A team of NDLEA operatives carried out an intelligence-based raid of the joint of a notorious drug dealer located at Okpanam area of Asaba at about 1600 hours on Thursday 13th July,” the statement reads.

“In the process of the operation, a Toyota Camry 2008 model, light blue colour at the scene suddenly zoomed off and knocked down one of our officers who is currently in critical condition, undergoing treatment in a hospital.

“In a bid to demobilize the car and prevent it from escaping, another officer fired a shot aimed at the tyre of the car, which eventually escaped. While the injured Officer was rushed for treatment, other officers got reports of a stray bullet hitting a young person.”

“The affected victim was taken to the hospital for treatment but unfortunately died in the process.

“We’re in touch with the family to provide necessary assistance while we conclude our investigation of the incident.

“We will like to assure the family and members of the public that we’ll get to the root of the case and take necessary action(s).”