An operation carried out by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Bakassi Local Government Area of Cross River State reportedly turned violent after officers came under mob attack, leaving a young boy injured by a stray bullet.
The incident occurred on Wednesday, May 13, during a raid in Ikang where NDLEA operatives arrested two suspected drug dealers.
According to reports, panic broke out in the area after gunshots were heard during the confrontation, forcing residents to flee for safety.
An eyewitness told Vanguard:
“Gunshots were suddenly heard during the confrontation, and people started running. After the situation calmed down, it was discovered that a young boy had been hit by a stray bullet and was lying on the ground before he was rushed to the hospital,”
Confirming the incident, NDLEA Cross River spokesperson Sebastian Lebo said officers were attacked by a mob while carrying out the operation.
“It is true that our officers were at Bakassi for an operation. The two dealers that were targets were arrested with good quality exhibits and are now in custody.
“Our officers came under mob attack and unfortunately there was an injury,” he said.
Lebo further disclosed that the injured boy is currently receiving treatment at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital and is responding positively.
He also stated that operatives successfully recovered exhibits during the operation despite the attack.