An NDLEA officer has reportedly drowned while pursuing a fleeing suspected drug offender in Delta State.
The tragic incident happened around the River Ethiope Bridge in Obiaruku, Ukwuani Local Government Area.
The officer was reportedly chasing the suspect when the operation took a tragic turn.
Sources said NDLEA operatives had arrested the suspect over alleged drug-related activities.
The officers reportedly took him towards the River Ethiope Bridge while preparing to take him into custody.
However, the suspect allegedly broke free and jumped into the river while trying to escape.
The officers reportedly entered the water in an attempt to stop him from getting away.
One of the officers was later said to have drowned during the pursuit.
Another officer who entered the river was reportedly rescued and taken to a hospital.
The suspect also reportedly escaped through the river and has not been accounted for.
The NDLEA officer drowning has raised questions about what happened during the river pursuit.
A source who confirmed the incident described it as a mystery. The source claimed the river was not deep enough to cause such a drowning.
The officer’s remains were later recovered, according to the source. The source also said the body was handed over to the NDLEA after traditional rites were performed.
According to the source, Obiaruku community requires certain rites before drowning victims’ remains are released.
The rites reportedly include providing a goat and other specified items. However, these claims about the traditional process have not been independently verified.
Delta State NDLEA Commander Halilu Hamidi referred journalists to agency spokesperson Femi Babafemi.
An NDLEA official later confirmed that the incident occurred. The official said an investigation was underway to establish what happened.
The probe is also expected to determine the actual cause of the officer’s death.
The NDLEA officer drowning occurred while the agency was pursuing a suspect accused of conveying illicit drugs.
Further details are expected as the investigation continues.
