NEWS

Police and NDLEA Clash Over Suspect in Yenagoa

There was chaos at the Ekeki Police Division in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, on Thursday following a violent altercation between officers of the Nigeria Police Force and operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

According to reports, NDLEA officials had gone to the area to arrest a woman suspected of drug trafficking. Before carrying out their operation, the operatives reportedly made an official entry at the police station, as required by protocol. However, their mission took a dramatic turn when policemen from the Ekeki Division obstructed the arrest, leading to a heated confrontation.

Eyewitnesses revealed that the situation escalated quickly, with multiple gunshots heard in the vicinity, causing panic among residents. A witness, who was near the Bayelsa Newspaper Corporation at the time, recounted hearing about six gunshots and rushed to the scene to see the NDLEA and police officers in a standoff.

In the process, it was alleged that police officers fired at two NDLEA operational vehicles to prevent the drug enforcement agents from taking the suspect into custody. The incident has sparked speculation among locals that the police might be shielding the suspect, enabling her alleged drug-related activities in the area.

“The whole incident made it appear as if the police were protecting the suspect, allowing her to continue her drug business close to the police station,” an eyewitness alleged.


See Also: Container Crushes SUV in Lagos, Two survivors Rescued


When contacted, the NDLEA’s spokesperson, Howells Oba, confirmed the confrontation, stating that their operatives followed due process by logging their operation at the police station. He also confirmed the damage to the agency’s vehicles, saying efforts were underway to retrieve them. Oba noted that the agency would issue an official statement on the matter after further deliberations.

Meanwhile, Bayelsa State Police Public Relations Officer Musa Mohammed disclosed that he was on his way to the scene to ascertain the facts. “I am heading there to understand what transpired,” he said.

The clash has raised serious concerns about inter-agency coordination and the integrity of law enforcement in the area. Residents are calling for a thorough investigation into the incident, particularly the claims that the police might be aiding criminal activities.

The NDLEA and police authorities have assured the public that steps are being taken to resolve the matter and ensure peace is restored. However, the incident highlights the need for improved collaboration between security agencies to avoid similar occurrences in the future.

 

 

 

 

Content Credit| Ajibola Emmanuel Adebayo

Picture Credit | https://dailypost.ng/

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *