NDLEA destroys 12.2 tonnes of illicit drugs in Kano
NDLEA Destroys Over 12 Tonnes of Illicit Drugs in Kano
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) destroyed 12,233.946 kilograms—approximately 12.234 tonnes—of illicit drugs on Monday. The drugs were seized during operations throughout Kano State and at Malam Aminu Kano International Airport.
This destruction was conducted by the NDLEA Kano Strategic Command as part of its ongoing War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) campaign. Among the substances destroyed were cannabis, heroin, cocaine, tramadol, codeine, and methamphetamine, all confiscated during intelligence-led operations and subsequently forfeited by the courts.
Sadiq Muhammad Maigatari, Assistant Superintendent of Narcotics and the command’s Media and Advocacy Officer, provided details in a statement. The destruction was overseen by CN Dahiru Yahaya Lawal, Commander of the Kano Strategic Command.
The agency highlighted that the seized drugs resulted from targeted raids and sustained enforcement efforts across the state, including Operations Sharar Mafaka and Ramadan Mubarak. Investigations have revealed advanced concealment methods, such as tunnels and caves in the Rimin Kebe area, indicating the lengths to which traffickers will go to avoid detection and the need for coordinated efforts to dismantle their operations.
Since January 2026, the NDLEA has arrested 904 individuals—869 men and 35 women—confiscated more than 2.5 tonnes of illicit substances, and secured over 54 convictions, with some offenders receiving prison sentences of up to 15 years.
Ahmed Suleiman Ningi, the Director of Operations and General Investigations, represented the NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer during the event. He described the public destruction of the drugs as “justice made visible,” emphasizing the agency’s commitment to protecting communities through strict law enforcement and various support programs.
The Kano State government also reaffirmed its commitment to the anti-drug campaign, stating that the public destruction highlights the state’s determination to thwart criminal networks and to combine enforcement efforts with rehabilitation and youth reintegration initiatives.