In a remarkable display of commitment and achievement, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) KANO State Command, under the leadership of Commander Abubakar Idris Ahmad, CN, has reported significant successes in the fight against drug trafficking and abuse throughout the year 2023.
A statement signed by Sadiq Muhammad Maigatari ASN II, Public Relations Officer of the Command says, “NDLEA Kano Command has successfully apprehended 1,016 suspects involved in various drug-related crimes, including 40 females, making a substantial impact on dismantling illicit drug networks and ensuring community safety.”
The command’s relentless efforts resulted in the recovery of an impressive 9,128.572kg (9 tons) of narcotics drugs and psychotropic substances, preventing these harmful substances from reaching communities.
According to him, the items include 6,097.879kg of cannabis sativa, 1,695.774kg of psychotropic substances, and 1,334.919kg of other illicit substances like cocaine, heroin and methamphetamine.
“With 102 convictions secured and 104 pending cases before the Federal High Court, the NDLEA Kano Command ensures that perpetrators of drug-related crimes face justice. Notably, a woman was sentenced to 5 years and a man to 10 years in prison for different drug offenses.” he added.
In addition to enforcement actions, the command prioritizes rehabilitation, supporting 70 individuals in successfully overcoming drug dependency. The Drug Demand Reduction professionals of the Command also counseled 1,459 persons referred by investigation and other stakeholders.
The NDLEA Kano Command’s War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) advocacy reached over 5,000 individuals through various awareness programs, workshops, and community engagement activities. Substance abuse tests conducted revealed three persons from Emirate Councils and six from other referrals testing positive for different drugs of abuse.
Recognizing the influence of traditional rulers, 245 substance abuse tests were conducted, ensuring individuals in such positions remain free from the influence of drugs for public safety.
To protect the nation’s image globally, the command investigated 598 visa clearance applications submitted by Kano State Government, individuals, students, and institutions.
The Command publicly destroyed over 15 tons of assorted Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances from decided cases and other seizures, demonstrating its commitment to eradicating the drug trade.
The NDLEA Kano Command expresses gratitude to dedicated officers, the Kano State Government, security agencies, stakeholders, and the public for their invaluable support. As the command looks ahead, it remains resolute in its mission to ensure safer communities, intensifying efforts to dismantle drug networks, rehabilitate those in need, secure convictions, and destroy illicit substances.
