A sting operation by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) ended in tragedy on Tuesday after an operative, identified as Officer Jide, was shot dead by suspected drug dealers in Ondo town, Ondo State.
The incident occurred at a residential building in the Ita’nla area, where NDLEA agents had stormed the premises based on credible intelligence indicating that illicit drugs were concealed in the ceiling of the apartment.
According to eyewitness accounts, while other officers proceeded inside to retrieve the hidden substances, Officer Jide remained outside to secure the perimeter.
In a shocking turn of events, armed assailants believed to be linked to the drug ring emerged suddenly and opened fire.
“He was keeping watch when the gunmen appeared out of nowhere. They shot him in the neck. He was rushed to the hospital but was confirmed dead on arrival,” a source at the scene told The Hope.
Efforts to reach the NDLEA’s spokesperson in Ondo, Adebayo Solomon, proved futile as at press time.
However, the Police Public Relations Officer for Ondo State, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, confirmed the killing.
“In response, we quickly mobilized officers to the area. Four suspects have been apprehended, and a single-barrel gun believed to have been used in the attack has been recovered,” Ayanlade stated.
He assured that the police are working closely with the NDLEA to track down all others involved and ensure justice is served.
