By Johnson Abel
A young boy was hit by a stray bullet on Wednesday after operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency came under attack from a mob during a raid in Ikang, Bakassi Local Government Area of Cross River State.
The anti-drug agency had reportedly stormed the area to apprehend suspected drug dealers when the operation turned violent, triggering panic among residents as gunshots were heard in the community.
According to an eyewitness who spoke on condition of anonymity, confusion erupted during the confrontation as residents scampered for safety.
“People suddenly started running when gunshots were heard during the confrontation. After calm returned, a young boy was found lying on the ground after being struck by a stray bullet. He was immediately rushed to the hospital,” the source said.
The incident created tension in the area, with residents expressing concern over the circumstances that led to the shooting.
Confirming the development, the Public Relations Officer of the NDLEA in Cross River State, Sebastian Lebo, said operatives successfully arrested two suspected drug dealers during the operation despite resistance from a mob.
“It is true that our officers were in Bakassi for an operation. The two suspected dealers targeted during the raid were arrested with exhibits and are currently in custody,” Lebo stated.
“Our officers came under mob attack and, unfortunately, one person sustained injury during the incident,” he added.
Lebo disclosed that the injured boy is currently receiving treatment at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital and is responding positively to treatment.
He further noted that operatives recovered illicit drug exhibits from the suspects despite the disruption caused by the attack.
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