A National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) officer, identified as Aliyu Imran, was lynched by an angry mob in Gadan-Gayan, Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

Imran, an Assistant Superintendent of Narcotic 1, was allegedly attacked after a car being pursued by NDLEA operatives crashed, reportedly killing four people on the spot. The tragic incident unfolded during a drug-related operation when a suspect, attempting to evade arrest, reversed his vehicle and fatally hit pedestrians.

According to sources, Imran had stepped out of the patrol vehicle to calm the growing unrest but was set upon by an enraged crowd. Witnesses say he was stabbed multiple times before being taken to a nearby hospital by a police officer. However, the mob later stormed the hospital, dragged him out, and burned him alive.

His grieving family has accused the NDLEA of neglect, alleging that the agency neither reached out for condolences nor offered compensation.

A source familiar with NDLEA operations claimed that similar incidents in the past had been “covered up” to avoid compensating affected families.

The NDLEA has denied these allegations. Spokesperson Femi Babafemi confirmed that a high-ranking delegation had been sent to Kaduna to visit the bereaved family. He also revealed that the commander overseeing the operation had been suspended pending further investigation.

“This is a serious matter, and the agency is fully engaged in uncovering all details surrounding the incident,” Babafemi stated.

Imran, who was recently married in December, was laid to rest on Saturday, February 15. His wife reportedly fainted during his burial.

The NDLEA and security agencies have vowed to investigate the circumstances of his death and ensure justice is served.