The Kano State Strategic Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has commenced a special crackdown tagged “Operation Sharar Mafaka”, leading to the arrest of 52 suspected drug offenders across several locations in the metropolis.
In a statement issued in Kano by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Sadiq Muhammad-Maigatari, it was disclosed that the operation targeted known drug hotspots as part of efforts to dismantle distribution networks and reduce drug-related activities.
The phrase “Sharar Mafaka” is a Hausa expression meaning the clearing of hideouts or flushing out concealed criminal spots.
According to the State Commander, Dahiru Yahaya-Lawal, the exercise was designed to disrupt drug dealing points and enhance public safety across affected communities.
He explained that the operation, which began on April 27, covered more than 20 identified drug locations, resulting in multiple arrests and seizures within 48 hours.
On the first day, NDLEA operatives raided areas including Filin Idi, Tashar Rami, Fagge, Abattoir, and Farm Centre, where 15 suspects were apprehended alongside various illicit substances and drug-related materials.
The following day, additional operations were carried out at Hotoro Flyover, Mariri Park, Ramin Jirga Tishama, Yankaba Park, and Audu Bako Secretariat, leading to the arrest of 16 suspects, including three women, with drugs and locally fabricated weapons recovered.
Further coordinated raids on the same day at Kwanar Ungogo, Titin Jajira, Tudun Bojuwa, and parts of Sabon Gari resulted in the arrest of 21 more suspects, including one female.
The commander stated that the agency would continue sustained operations aimed at dismantling drug hubs, arresting offenders, and clearing identified criminal hideouts until normalcy is restored.
He also appealed to residents to support ongoing efforts to combat drug abuse and trafficking in order to make communities safer.
Yahaya-Lawal added that the operation aligns with directives from the NDLEA national leadership under retired Brig.-Gen. Mohammed Buba-Marwa, who has consistently pushed for a drug-free society.
He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to continuous enforcement, public sensitisation, and collaboration with stakeholders in tackling illicit drug activities in Kano State.