Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency have arrested two suspected drug dealers in Ikang, Bakassi Local Government Area of Cross River State, following a raid that turned chaotic after a mob confrontation.
The operation, carried out on Wednesday, reportedly descended into confusion when gunshots were heard, forcing residents to flee for safety.
An eyewitness, who spoke anonymously, said panic spread through the community as the confrontation escalated.
“Gunshots were suddenly heard during the confrontation, and people started running. After the situation calmed down, it was discovered that a young boy had been hit by a stray bullet and was lying on the ground before he was rushed to the hospital,” the eyewitness said.
The incident left residents uncertain about what triggered the clash between the operatives and members of the community.
Confirming the incident, the Public Relations Officer of the NDLEA in Cross River State, Sebastian Lebo, said the agency’s officers came under mob attack during the operation.
“It is true that our officers were at Bakassi for an operation. The two dealers that were targets were arrested with good quality exhibits and are now in custody.
“Our officers came under mob attack and unfortunately a young boy sustained an injury,” Lebo stated.
He added that the injured boy is currently receiving treatment at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital and is responding positively.