SUNTV Global Channel | February 10, 2026
An operation by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to dismantle a notorious drug trafficking hub in Bonny Island, Rivers State, has claimed the life of one of its officers.
The agency confirmed that Chief Narcotic Agent Sadiq Bako Mujahid died after sustaining severe head injuries during a violent confrontation with hoodlums while operatives raided the Ama Hausa area of Bonny Island, widely identified by security agencies as a major drug enclave.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by the NDLEA’s Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, the raid was carried out on Friday, February 6, 2026, leading to the arrest of six suspected drug traffickers and the recovery of a large cache of illicit substances.
Items seized during the operation included cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, skunk, and large quantities of tramadol, underscoring the scale of drug activities in the area.
According to the agency, the situation turned violent when the alleged gang leader, Genesis George Benson, reportedly mobilised armed hoodlums in a bid to obstruct his arrest and enable an escape. During the ensuing clash, Mujahid was critically injured.
He was rushed to the Bonny Island General Hospital, where he later died despite emergency medical intervention.
Other suspects arrested during the operation were identified as ThankGod Okon, Shamsudden Isah, Muhammed Musa, Adamu Muhammed, and Muhammed Yusuf.
Reacting to the incident, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the NDLEA, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), commended the operatives for their bravery and resolve in the face of a deadly attack.
“I salute the gallantry of our men who refused to be intimidated by these criminal elements,” Marwa said.
“Even after the cowardly attack on Mujahid, they ensured the suspects were subdued, arrested, and their drugs confiscated. His sacrifice will not be in vain.”
While mourning the fallen officer, Marwa described Mujahid as a disciplined and courageous operative who paid the ultimate price in the line of duty. He extended the agency’s condolences to the deceased’s family, colleagues, and the NDLEA Rivers State Command.
The NDLEA boss also issued a stern warning to criminal networks targeting law enforcement officers.
“Any attack on our officers is an attack on the Nigerian state, and it will attract severe consequences,” he warned.
“We remain undeterred in our mission to rid Nigeria of illicit drugs and will continue to take the fight to the enclaves of these merchants of death.”
The agency disclosed that investigations into the incident are ongoing, adding that the suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion of preliminary inquiries.
