Heavy gunshots were fired in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Tuesday evening, October 28, 2025, as hoodlums launched a brazen attack on officials of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in an attempt to free an arrested drug kingpin.
According to eyewitnesses, the incident occurred at Odunze Lane in Mile 3 Diobu, Port Harcourt, at about 4:30 pm.
The hoodlums, allegedly armed with machetes and bottles, attacked the NDLEA officials who had arrested a suspect identified as Okpe.
The situation turned chaotic as the hoodlums threw stones and bottles at the officers, prompting them to fire shots into the air in self-defence.
It was learnt that some NDLEA personnel were injured in the process, and one of their vehicles was damaged
The agency in official report through press release reads as follows:
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Rivers State Command wishes to clarify reports surrounding the arrest of suspected drug dealers at Oduneze Lane, Mile 3, Diobu axis of Port Harcourt on Tuesday, 28th October, 2025.
At about 4:30 pm on 28th October, 2025, based on intelligence, operatives of NDLEA Rivers State Command arrested three suspects, including the individual identified as Okpe, with 12 kilograms of suspected cannabis sativa at Odunze Street, Mile 3 Diobu. During the arrest, a group of hoodlums attempted to intervene, throwing stones, bottles, and other objects. To disperse the crowd, the officers fired warning shots into the air and successfully whisked the suspects away without sustaining any injuries.
The NDLEA commends the bravery and professionalism of our operatives who ensured the safe custody of the suspects and exhibits.
The State Commander, CN Ahmed Mamuda wishes to assure the public that our personnel will continue to carry out their duties without fear or intimidation. We appreciate the public’s understanding and cooperation in our efforts to rid the society of illicit drugs.
The suspects are currently undergoing investigation and providing us with useful information. Further details on the incident and the suspects will be provided in due course.
Thank you.
Signed
CSN Ugo Olisaemeka-Iyi
PSO Media & Advocacy
NDLEA Rivers State Command
Wednesday, 29-10-2025
