NDLEA Officer Killed, Six Suspects Arrested in Bloody Bonny Island Drug Operation
Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) conducted a high-risk raid on a notorious drug enclave known as Ama Hausa in Bonny Island, Rivers State, resulting in the arrest of six suspects and the recovery of a significant cache of illicit substances. The strategic operation, which took place on Friday, February 6th, 2026, turned tragic when armed hoodlums mobilized by one of the suspects attacked the officers, leading to the death of Chief Narcotic Agent Sadiq Bako Mujahid.
Violent Confrontation During Drug Bust
According to a statement from Femi Babafemi, spokesperson of the NDLEA, the operation took a deadly turn when suspect Genesis George Benson mobilized a group of armed hoodlums to attack the operatives in a desperate bid to escape arrest. During the violent confrontation that ensued, Chief Narcotic Agent Sadiq Bako Mujahid sustained severe head injuries. Despite being rushed immediately to the Bonny Island General Hospital for emergency medical attention, Mujahid unfortunately succumbed to his injuries.
The NDLEA operatives demonstrated remarkable bravery and resilience, standing their ground despite the brutal attack and successfully apprehending all six targets of the raid. The suspects arrested during the operation include:
- Genesis George Benson (gang leader)
- ThankGod Okon
- Shamsudden Isah
- Muhammed Musa
- Adamu Muhammed
- Muhammed Yusuf
Significant Drug Haul Recovered
The raid resulted in the recovery of a substantial quantity of illicit substances from the Ama Hausa area, which has long been identified as a hub for criminal activities in Bonny Island. Among the drugs confiscated were:
- Cocaine
- Heroin
- Methamphetamine
- Skunk
- Tramadol
This seizure represents a significant blow to drug trafficking operations in the region and demonstrates the NDLEA's continued commitment to disrupting the supply chain of illicit substances in Nigeria.
NDLEA Leadership Responds to Tragedy
While reacting to the development, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retired), commended the bravery and resilience of the officers who participated in the operation. "I salute the gallantry of our men who refused to be intimidated by these criminal elements," Marwa stated. "Even after the cowardly attack on Mujahid, our operatives ensured that the assailants were overpowered and arrested, and their illicit substances confiscated. Their sacrifice will not be in vain."
While mourning the loss of Mujahid, Marwa described him as a disciplined and courageous officer who paid the ultimate price in the service of his fatherland. "We extend our deepest condolences to his family, his colleagues, and the Rivers State Command," the NDLEA boss expressed.
Marwa issued a stern warning to criminal elements: "Any attack on our officers is an attack on the state, and it will not go without dire consequences. We remain undeterred in our mission to rid Nigeria of illicit drugs, and we will continue to take the fight to the enclaves of these merchants of death."
Ongoing Battle Against Drug Trafficking
This incident highlights the dangerous nature of anti-drug operations in Nigeria and the risks faced by law enforcement personnel in their daily duties. The NDLEA has intensified its operations across the country in recent years, targeting drug cartels and trafficking networks that threaten public health and national security.
The death of Chief Narcotic Agent Sadiq Bako Mujahid serves as a somber reminder of the sacrifices made by security personnel in the line of duty. As the NDLEA continues its campaign against drug abuse and trafficking, such tragic incidents underscore the need for enhanced security measures and public support for law enforcement agencies.
