Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have arrested six suspects during a raid on a notorious drug hideout known as Ama Hausa in Bonny Island, Rivers State, recovering a large cache of illicit substances including cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, skunk, and tramadol.
Tragically, the operation claimed the life of Chief Narcotic Agent Sadiq Bako Mujahid, who sustained severe head injuries when drug dealers mobilized armed hoodlums to attack the team.
In a statement issued Tuesday morning by NDLEA Director of Media & Advocacy Femi Babafemi, the raid took place on Friday, February 6, 2026.
The arrested suspects include the gang leader, Genesis George Benson—held responsible for Mujahid’s death—as well as ThankGod Okon, Shamsudden Isah, Muhammed Musa, Adamu Muhammed, and Muhammed Yusuf.
During the confrontation, Mujahid was rushed to Bonny Island General Hospital but succumbed to his injuries.
NDLEA Chairman/Chief Executive Officer Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) commended the officers’ bravery and resilience.
“I salute the gallantry of our men who refused to be intimidated by these criminal elements. Even after the cowardly attack on Mujahid, our operatives ensured the assailants were overpowered and arrested, and their illicit substances confiscated. Their sacrifice will not be in vain,” Marwa said.
He described the slain officer as a disciplined and courageous servant who paid the ultimate price.
“We extend our deepest condolences to his family, his colleagues, and the Rivers State Command. 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,” Marwa added.
The operation underscores NDLEA’s intensified nationwide crackdown on drug trafficking networks since Brig. Gen. Marwa’s appointment in January 2021 and reappointment by President Bola Tinubu.
