Two others God’spower Omage (20) and Ajayi Irobia (54) sustained serious injuries in the clash, while one NDLEA officer was wounded after being struck on the hand with a sharp object.

The incident was disclosed in a statement issued on Thursday in Benin by the Edo State NDLEA Commander, Mitchell Ofoyeju.Ofoyeju described Okpuje as a notorious hub for cannabis cultivation and trafficking, noting that a joint team of NDLEA and Nigerian Army personnel came under heavy attack as they advanced into the community.

Local cultivators reportedly ambushed the operatives, triggering an exchange of gunfire that forced the team to temporarily abort the operation and retreat for safety before regrouping.

“One of our officers was struck on the hand with a sharp object but has received medical treatment and is expected to make a full recovery,” Ofoyeju said.

He commended the bravery of the operatives and soldiers, emphasizing that no member of the security team lost their life despite the intense resistance.“Although we faced fierce opposition, we remain committed to disrupting illegal drug activities in this area,” he stated.

Ofoyeju reaffirmed the agency’s resolve to intensify anti-narcotics operations across Edo State.“We will not relent in our pursuit of a drug-free society. Operations like these are critical in the fight against drug cultivation and trafficking,” he added.

The raid forms part of NDLEA’s broader campaign to dismantle drug networks and enhance community safety in areas plagued by illicit cannabis farming.