Illicit drugs worth N1.2 billion have been seized while 1,078 suspects had been picked up in Kano within 12 months by the National Drugs Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
The NDLEA State Commander, Abubakar Idris-Ahmad, disclosed this to newsmen on its maiden end-of-the-year review on Thursday.
“We raided 82 hot spots within and outside Kano metropolis to arrest and seize different illicit drugs in our quest to bolster crime reduction among the larger populace in the state through eradicating drug abuse and trafficking.
“As a result, 1,078 suspects were arrested which include 951 males and 127 females.
“The total drugs seized within the period under review is 8,386.733kg, which is made up of 6,607.492kgs of cannabis sativa, 1,778.388kg of psychotropic substances, 451grams of cocaine, 125gram of heroin and 277gram of methamphetamine.”
Idris-Ahmad further within the 12 months, the agency secured 113 convictions, destroyed five cannabis farms in the state and rehabilitated over 1,844 drug abusers.
“The agency sensitized 150 schools on drug prevention, screened 141 traditional title holders on drugs and 164 Visa clearance, secured approval under the period review” Idris-Ahmad said.
According to him, the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, NDLEA, retired Brig.-Gen. Mohammed Buba Marwa, has approved the creation of additional two area Commands in the state in the fight against drug.
He praised the Kano State Government for supporting the agency and commended the Kano traditional Council which decided that candidates should undergo drug screening before being appointed as Ward, Village or District heads.
“We also appreciate the synergy being enjoyed from sister security agencies in the area of intelligence sharing, NGOs, Community leaders and media towards drug prevention education and information”.
The Commander called on the state government and other relevant stakeholders to support the agency in addressing the supply and demand reduction of illicit drugs.
“As we approach the 2023 general election we will continue to advocate for peaceful elections.
“There is no crime without drugs and curbing its menace in the state will bring ease to policing before, during and after the election,” Idris-Ahmad said.
