A senior official of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) confirmed that operatives had repelled an attack by gunmen along the Kaduna-Zaria highway on Saturday at 3 am. The gunmen had blocked the highway, but one of their victims escaped and alerted nearby NDLEA operatives. The NDLEA team engaged the gunmen in a shootout, forcing them to flee. No one was abducted during the incident as the operatives arrived in time to disperse the gunmen.
According to the NDLEA official, who requested anonymity, the incident occurred four days prior to the footage being circulated on social media on Monday. The video showed several vehicles and articulated trucks abandoned along the highway following the encounter. Some trucks had their engines running but were without drivers or passengers. The footage also showed NDLEA operatives patrolling the area and documenting the aftermath.
The NDLEA operatives were stationed nearby and quickly responded to the alert from the escaped victim. Their timely intervention prevented the gunmen from carrying out their plans. The official stated that the gunmen had fled upon the arrival of the NDLEA team. The area was then secured, and the abandoned belongings were gathered and loaded into a truck for recovery.
A video obtained by Daily Trust showed the aftermath of the encounter, with NDLEA operatives directing their colleagues to gather the abandoned belongings. One of the officers was heard speaking in Hausa, confirming that the suspected robbers had fled. The NDLEA team maintained control of the area until further notice.
When contacted, the Kaduna State NDLEA Public Relations Officer, Sani Garba, promised to provide details after making enquiries. However, he had yet to respond as of the time of filing this report. Similarly, Kaduna State Police Command Public Relations Officer DSP Mansir Hassan could not be reached on the phone for comments.
The incident highlights the efforts of the NDLEA in maintaining security and order in the region. The agency's swift response prevented a potential kidnapping or robbery incident. The NDLEA operatives' bravery and vigilance were instrumental in repelling the attack.
The Kaduna-Zaria highway is a major route, and the incident may have caused disruptions to traffic and commercial activities. However, with the NDLEA operatives patrolling the area, travelers and commuters can feel more secure. The agency's efforts aim to ensure the safety of Nigerians and their property.
Key points
- The NDLEA operatives repelled a gunmen attack on the Kaduna-Zaria highway, preventing potential kidnapping or robbery.
- The incident occurred on Saturday at 3 am and was documented on video, which was circulated on social media on Monday.
- The NDLEA's swift response and bravery were instrumental in maintaining security and order in the region.
