The Kano Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency says it has arrested 230 suspects and seized large quantities of illicit drugs during a month-long coordinated operation across the state.
State Commander Abubakar Idris-Ahmad announced the development on Friday in Kano during a press briefing, describing the past weeks as a period of “significant achievements” in efforts to curb drug abuse and related offences.
Mr Idris-Ahmad explained that the sweep was carried out under the Kano State Joint Taskforce for Peace Restoration and Youth Rehabilitation.
He added that the NDLEA worked alongside the police, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, the Nigeria Immigration Service, the Nigeria Correctional Service and the State Security Service throughout the operation.
According to him, operatives stormed several well-known drug hubs, including Kofar Ruwa, Tashar Rami, Rijiyar Lemo, Kurna and Mile Tara.
Other locations raided were Zage, Dorayi Karshen Waya, Dawanau, Filin Idi, Research, Rimi Market, Zango, Kofar Mata, Kano Line and Ladanai, among others.
He said officers recovered cannabis sativa, Exol-5, diazepam, codeine syrup, “suck and die,” rubber solution and various locally made weapons during the raids.
The commander noted that some suspects had already been taken to court, while investigations were ongoing for others.
“The impact of this operation is already visible. Residents have witnessed a reduction in substance abuse and crimes such as thuggery and phone snatching,” he said.
Mr Idris-Ahmad attributed the progress to strong cooperation among security agencies, describing such coordination as crucial to restoring stability and protecting the public.
He also praised the Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Adamu-Bakori, for his leadership, and acknowledged the SSS for providing intelligence that guided the operation.
The commander further commended Governor Abba Yusuf for consistently supporting efforts aimed at addressing drug abuse and curbing thuggery in the state.
He called on parents, community leaders and civil society groups to work more closely with security agencies to tackle drug misuse.
Chairman of the Joint Taskforce Committee on Peace Restoration and Youth Rehabilitation, Yusuf Ibrahim-Kofarmata, also hailed the agencies involved for their commitment.
He said the state government remained dedicated to sustaining the campaign against drug abuse. Mr Ibrahim-Kofarmata, who also serves as Commissioner for Science, Technology and Innovation, disclosed that some suspects had already begun rehabilitation, while others would be prosecuted once investigations were concluded.
He reaffirmed the government’s resolve to equip security agencies with the resources required to maintain peace and order.
