The Kano State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested 319 suspected drug peddlers and seized over four tonnes of various illicit substances in the first quarter of 2024.
The spokesperson of the command, Sadiq Muhammad Maigatari, made this known to newsmen yesterday.
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He said the arrested suspects consist of 14 females and 305 males, while the seizures include 2,321.856kg of cannabis sativa, 2,446.461kg of psychotropic substances including the seizure of over five million pills of tramadol and 1.9kg of other dangerous substances.
In addition to the arrests and seizures, Maigatari said that under the leadership of commander Abubakar Idris Ahmad, NDLEA Kano Command also dislodged 39 drug joints that were serving as hubs for drug activities in the state which he described as an operation that has dealt a major blow to the drug trafficking network in the state which will help to disrupt the flow of illicit substances in the region.
The spokesperson, in a statement he issued, said, “Furthermore, the NDLEA Kano Command has secured 33 convictions of individuals involved in drug trafficking and other drug-related offenses, demonstrating its commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that perpetrators are brought to justice.
“Additionally, the command has rehabilitated 26 drug addicts, providing them with the support they need to overcome their addiction and lead healthier lives.
“Within the period under review, the NDLEA Kano Command has conducted 30 drug integrity tests for individuals and members of the Emirate councils in the state, ensuring that those in positions of influence are free from drug abuse.
“The command has also processed 38 visa clearances for intending travelers, demonstrating its dedication to facilitating legitimate travel while combating drug-related crimes,” the statement noted.
While attributing the recent success of the Command to the additional manpower added to its workforce, the spokesperson said the influx of new personnel has bolstered the command’s operations and enabled it to carry out more effective and targeted enforcement actions against drug trafficking and abuse in the state.