NDLEA arrests 1,860 suspects, seizes 5.4 tonnes of illicit drugs in Kano
NDLEA Reports Significant Drug Seizures and Arrests in Kano State
KANO, Nigeria — The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Kano Strategic Command announced on Tuesday that it arrested 1,860 individuals, including 92 women, and seized more than 5.4 tonnes of illicit drugs in the first nine months of 2026.
According to a press statement from the agency, the seizures totaled 5,409.814 kilograms of various prohibited substances, including cannabis sativa, cocaine, methamphetamine, and psychotropic drugs. The command also secured 89 convictions and filed 126 new cases in the courts during this period, while 135 cases are still pending before the Federal High Court.
The NDLEA highlighted the extent of drug trafficking in Kano State and emphasized its ongoing commitment to enforcing drug laws. As part of its broader strategy, the agency’s Counselling, Treatment and Rehabilitation Unit reported approximately 1,700 interventions aimed at supporting individuals affected by substance abuse.
In addition to enforcement efforts, the command conducted around 420 sensitization programs in schools and communities to educate the public about the dangers of drug abuse. Significant operations, such as Operation Restore Order, led to the dismantling of approximately 35 identified drug joints across the state and the arrest of more than 300 suspects. These efforts were directed by the NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Brigadier-General Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd.), with the goal of disrupting drug distribution networks and enhancing community safety.
The command also reported findings from Operation Sharar Mafaka, which uncovered underground tunnels and caves in the Rimin Kebe area, allegedly used by drug dealers to conduct their operations and evade law enforcement.
D.Y. Lawal, the Kano State Commander, reiterated the agency’s dedication to protecting public health, enhancing community safety, and combating drug abuse and trafficking in the region.
