The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency says it arrested 1,345 suspects and seized 8,430.239kg of illicit substances in 2024.

NDLEA’s commander in Kano, Abubakar Idris-Ahmad, stated this on Thursday in Kano.

He said that the suspects arrested comprised 1,301 males and 44 females.

Mr Idris-Ahmad said the illicit substances seized included hemp, cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, codeine, and over five million tablets of tramadol.

He said the command also secured 128 convictions for various drug-related offences.

“In a bid to enhance operational effectiveness, we initiated ‘Operation Hana Maye’ (Operation Stop Drug Abuse), aimed at combating drug abuse and fostering a safer environment for the citizens of Kano State.

“We successfully dismantled over 20 drug joints in notorious areas across the state. These drug dens are located in Filin Idi, Dan Agundi, Sani Abacha Youth Centre, and Sani Abacha Stadium,” Mr Idris-Ahmad said.

According to him, the agency conducted 1,114 drug integrity tests for aspiring candidates for council elections to promote responsible leadership and good governance.

“We successfully conducted 207 anti-drug campaigns and 202 visa clearance tests to prevent the trafficking of illicit drugs and protect the country’s reputation,” Mr Idris-Ahmad added.

He also mentioned that 101 drug addicts were counselled and rehabilitated through the agency’s rehabilitation programme, which has helped the individuals to be reintegrated into society.

Mr Idris-Ahmad said, “The command will continue its efforts, leveraging intelligence-driven operations and community partnerships to dismantle drug trafficking networks and promote a safer, healthier society for all.”

(NAN)