NDLEA officer drowns in River Ethiope during suspect pursuit

An officer from the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) died and a colleague was hospitalized after entering the River Ethiope during a pursuit in Obiaruku, Delta State.

The incident occurred on Saturday during a drug enforcement operation in the Ukwuani Local Government Area. According to community sources, a suspected drug offender who had been apprehended on one side of the river jumped into the water to escape while being moved toward the River Ethiope Bridge. The two officers entered the river in pursuit of the suspect, who successfully escaped.

The body of the deceased officer was recovered from the river. Local reports indicate that traditional rites were performed in Obiaruku before the remains were released to authorities. The NDLEA has stated that the circumstances of the incident will be investigated, and police have urged the public to remain calm.