Korede Abdullah 
DELTA, Nigeria – A National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) officer has drowned in River Ethiope, Delta State, while pursuing suspected drug offenders, while another officer involved in the operation is receiving treatment.
The incident occurred on Saturday in Obiaruku, Ukwuani Local Government Area, after a suspected drug offender reportedly jumped into the river while being taken towards the River Ethiope Bridge in an attempt to escape.
The officers reportedly entered the river in pursuit of the fleeing suspect. One officer drowned, while the other was rescued and taken to a hospital for treatment.
The body of the deceased officer was subsequently recovered from the river.
The suspect and other people being pursued reportedly escaped through the water.
The circumstances surrounding the incident were not immediately clear, while authorities were working to establish the full details of the operation.
Community sources said traditional rites associated with drowning incidents in Obiaruku were performed before the remains were released to the relevant authorities. The rites reportedly involved the provision of a goat and other items.
The incident has raised concern in the community over the risks faced by law enforcement officers during operations involving suspects attempting to evade arrest.
The NDLEA has assured residents that it would conduct a thorough investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the officer’s death and the escape of the suspects.
The incident comes as the agency continues nationwide operations against illicit drug trafficking and abuse, including arrests and enforcement activities in communities, along major routes and at other locations.
The Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, Bright Edafe, urged residents to remain calm while authorities work to establish the full circumstances of the incident.
Further details about the identity of the deceased officer, the injured officer and the suspects were not immediately available.
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Mirian Gom 
