NDLEA Ready To Protect Own Operatives From Drug Barons, Others - Marwa

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has concluded plans to protect the identities of its operatives from drug barons.

The Chairman of the Agency, Brigadier-General Buba Marwa (retd) said operatives of the NDLEA will commence wearing face masks during their operations. 

Marwa said the move would protect the identities of the operatives whose lives become at risk after drug barons and addicts have identified them.

He said the suspects go after some of them after their operations. 

Marwa made this known on Saturday in an interview with The Punch, stressing that the agency remains committed to the safety of its personnel.

Operatives of the agency have been killed in different parts of the country by gunmen.

Operatives killed in 2022 include one Paul Anwana, who was killed at his residence in Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State in April while another officer was killed on 20th February in Ebony state.

Gunmen had stormed the agency's office on the Enugu-Abakaliki Expressway in the State which led to the death recorded.

During the attack, one other operative sustained gunshot wound in the leg. 

Marwa said: “We have devised a means to protect our men from the drug barons and addicts.

"After operations, these drug barons go after our men to attack them for doing their lawful duties. 

"We have to protect them and their households. 

"That is why they are going to be wearing masks during operations.

“They will cover their faces very well so that it will be difficult for the drug barons to identify them. 

"These young men and women are really working hard for the country and we should not expose them to danger.

"These drug barons have their tentacles everywhere and are ready to do anything illegal but within their reach to protect their illicit trade. We won’t allow that to happen.”