The Kano State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested a 45-year-old suspect, Ashiru Bala, in connection with the seizure of 1,499 bottles of codeine-based cough syrup.
The State Commandant, CN D. Y. Lawal, disclosed this in a statement issued by the command’s spokesperson, Sadiq Muhammad Maigatari.
According to the statement, the suspect was apprehended at his residence in Lambu, in Tofa Local Government Area, following an intelligence-led operation by NDLEA operatives.
The statement stated that investigations revealed that Bala had transported the consignment from Abuja and was preparing to deliver it to a local drug dealer in Kano. The illicit substances were reportedly meant for distribution and abuse during the forthcoming Sallah celebrations.
The statement further indicated that the suspect confessed to engaging in the transportation of illegal drugs for about two years. He also disclosed that he had been working in township services in Abuja for the past four years.
The agency said Bala had admitted receiving significant payments for each delivery, suggesting that he was fully aware of the illegal nature of the activity. The statement reaffirmed the agency’s resolve to clamp down on drug trafficking in the state.
“This arrest demonstrates our commitment to protecting communities from the dangers of illicit substances. We will continue to intensify operations against drug networks and ensure that offenders face the full weight of the law,” the statement said.
