The Kano State Multi-Agency Task Force on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking has arrested 28 suspects and recovered assorted illicit substances in the Rimin Gado and Doka communities of the state.

Chairman of the task force, Muhuyi Magaji Rimin-Gado, made this known in a statement issued by the secretary, Ibrahim Garba-Muhammad, on Sunday in Kano.

Mr Rimin-Gado, who led the operation, said it aimed to tackle drug-related criminality and protect communities from the effects of drug abuse and illicit trafficking.

“On August 7, the task force raided five drug joints in Rimin Gado and Doka in Tofa Local Government Area of the state.

“The targeted operation was aimed to demonstrate the task force’s impartial enforcement mandate and to send a clear message that no one is above the law.

“We are treating every community equally and enforcing the law without bias.

“Our guiding principle is Kano First, and we are determined to ensure a peaceful, prosperous and drug-free state in line with the vision of Gov. Abba Kabir-Yusuf,” he said.

Mr Rimin-Gado said the task force recovered various assorted illicit substances during the raids.

He said that he commenced the operations from his hometown, Rimin Gado, saying it was deliberate and symbolic.

“Sanitising my own community is the first step to a wider campaign,” he added.

He said that the campaign would be extended beyond Kano Metropolis to all 44 local government areas of the state.

The chairman noted that the operation combined kinetic interventions to disrupt criminal activities with coordinated follow-up.

He said the task force would also adopt a balanced approach that would combine enforcement with prevention and recovery.

“While kinetic measures continue to dismantle illicit drug networks, non-kinetic efforts are being intensified through engagement with community leaders, regulatory bodies, health services and educational partners to raise awareness.

“We’ll also strengthen supply‑chain controls and expand rehabilitative support to those affected by substance use,” he said.

He stressed that lawful and legitimate businesses were not the target of the operations.

“Our aim is to protect honest traders and create an environment in which businesses and communities can thrive free from the effects of drug trafficking and abuse,” he said.

Mr Rimin-Gado said investigations were ongoing and suspects found culpable would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.

He urged members of the public to support the ongoing operations by reporting suspicious activities and providing relevant information on drug trafficking and abuse.

The chairman reaffirmed the task force’s commitment to sustain its operations, uphold professional standards and safeguard the health and security of residents across the state.

(NAN)