Kano NDLEA Seized 8,400kg of Drugs, Arrested 1,345 Suspects in 2024
The Kano State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has reported significant achievements in its fight against drug trafficking and abuse in 2024. The agency seized a total of 8,430.239 kilograms of illicit drugs and arrested 1,345 suspects during the year.
Among those arrested were 1,301 males and 44 females. The substances confiscated ranged from Cannabis Sativa, cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, to Tramadol and codeine.
One of the command’s largest operations in 2024 involved the interception of over five million tramadol tablets along the Zaria-Kano Road, disrupting drug supply chains and significantly reducing the availability of harmful substances in the state.
In addition to the seizures and arrests, the NDLEA reported the conviction of Lawan Sani Hobe, who was sentenced to five years in prison after evading capture for 10 months following an attack on an NDLEA officer. The year also saw 128 convictions, including a group of 12 drug peddlers arrested at Filin Idi, all sentenced to three years without the option of a fine.
Other notable convictions included Ibrahim Tahir (9 years), ex-convict James Temitope Ajayi (7 years), and dismissed police officer Salisu Mohammed (5 years).
As part of its efforts to curb drug abuse, the NDLEA launched “Operation Hana Maye,” which led to the dismantling of over 20 drug joints in areas such as Filin Idi, Dan Agundi, and Sani Abacha Stadium. The operation played a crucial role in reducing drug-related activities in these hotspots.
The agency also implemented preventive measures, including conducting 1,114 drug integrity tests, especially for local government election candidates, ensuring that only drug-free individuals were eligible for leadership roles. In addition, 202 visa clearance tests were conducted to prevent cross-border drug trafficking.
The NDLEA’s rehabilitation efforts included the admission of 101 individuals into its drug treatment programme, with many successfully completing it and reintegrating into society. The command also conducted 207 anti-drug campaigns in schools, marketplaces, and communities to raise awareness about the dangers of substance abuse.
The State Commander, AI Ahmad, expressed gratitude to NDLEA Chairman Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd), Kano State Governor Alhaji Abba Yusuf, and other stakeholders for their support. He also commended the officers and men of the command for their dedication, which was instrumental in achieving the successes of the year.
Looking ahead to 2025, the NDLEA Kano Command reaffirmed its commitment to continuing intelligence-driven operations and community partnerships to ensure a drug-free Kano State.
