The Kano State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested 230 individuals and confiscated large amounts of illegal drugs and weapons during a month-long operation across the state.
State Commander, Mr. Abubakar Idris-Ahmad, disclosed this on Friday during a press briefing in Kano, highlighting the agency’s recent successes in combating drug abuse and related criminal activities.
He explained that the operation was carried out under the Kano State Joint Taskforce for Peace Restoration and Youth Rehabilitation, in collaboration with the Police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigeria Correctional Service, and the Department of State Services (DSS).
Idris-Ahmad noted that the raids targeted several known drug hotspots, including Kofar Ruwa, Tashar Rami, Rijiyar Lemo, Kurna, Mile Tara, Zage, Dorayi Karshen Waya, Dawanau, Filin Idi, Research, Rimi Market, Zango, Kofar Mata, Kano Line, and Ladanai, among others.
The operation led to the recovery of cannabis sativa, Exol-5, diazepam, codeine syrup, “suck and die,” rubber solution, and various locally made weapons. Some suspects have already been charged in court, while investigations continue for others.
“The results of this operation are already visible, with residents reporting a decline in substance abuse and crimes such as thuggery and phone snatching,” Idris-Ahmad said.
He attributed the success to effective collaboration among security agencies and praised the Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Adamu-Bakori, and the DSS for their leadership and intelligence support.
The commander also commended Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for his administration’s consistent backing of initiatives to curb drug abuse and maintain public safety.
Idris-Ahmad called on parents, community leaders, and civil society organisations to work closely with security agencies, emphasizing that cooperative efforts are essential for building a safer and healthier Kano State.
Dr. Yusuf Ibrahim-Kofarmata, chairman of the Joint Taskforce Committee on Peace Restoration and Youth Rehabilitation, lauded the dedication of the security agencies and reiterated the government’s commitment to providing resources to sustain peace and support rehabilitation efforts for offenders.