NDLEA Arrests 49 Suspects, Seizes Large Cache of Drugs in Kano State Crackdown

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Kano Strategic Command, has announced the arrest of 49 suspects linked to various drug-related offences following a decisive two-day operation across Kano metropolis. The operation, carried out on August 7 and 8, 2025, targeted notorious drug hotspots and led to the recovery of a wide range of illicit substances and dangerous items.

In a statement issued by the command’s spokesperson, Sadiq Mohammed Maigatari, the NDLEA revealed that the sweep covered key areas with a history of drug-related activity. Among the locations raided were Massallacin Idi, Fagge Plaza, Kofar Mata, Kofar Wambai, Kofar Dan’agundi, Makabartar Dan’agundi, Ladanai, Zage, and Tashar Rimi within the Rimi Market.

“This operation was part of a deliberate strategy to curb the growing menace of drug abuse and trafficking in Kano State,” Maigatari stated. “Our officers seized significant quantities of cannabis sativa, Pregabalin, diazepam, codeine syrup, Rohypnol, and locally concocted substances such as ‘Suck and Die’ and rubber solution. We also recovered locally made weapons believed to be used to protect drug operations.”

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Motor Parks Under the Radar

The NDLEA noted that the operation extended to motor parks, which have increasingly been used as distribution points for illicit substances. Raids at Kano Line Motor Park and Tashar Rami Motor Park, both located in Na’ibawa, led to the arrest of more than 15 suspects in addition to those apprehended in earlier operations.

Maigatari explained that motor parks serve as strategic meeting points for traffickers and dealers, enabling the rapid movement of drugs between states and across regional markets. By targeting these hubs, the NDLEA aims to disrupt supply chains and dismantle entrenched dealer networks.

Comprehensive Crackdown on Drug Networks

The Kano Strategic Command emphasized that the arrests were not random but the result of targeted intelligence-led operations. The command has been gathering intelligence on known dealers, suppliers, and drug joint operators, focusing on locations with repeat offenses and consistent reports from the public.

“Since the elevation of NDLEA’s operations in Kano to a strategic command level, we have significantly expanded our capacity to track, intercept, and dismantle drug networks,” the spokesperson said. “This operation is one in a series of coordinated actions designed to remove drugs from our communities and prosecute those profiting from this illegal trade.”

The NDLEA’s move comes amid growing concern over the public health and security impact of drug abuse in the state. Officials note that illicit drug use has been linked to a rise in violent crimes, loss of lives, and property destruction, as well as increased cases of addiction among youths.

Dangerous Substances and Public Safety Concerns

The NDLEA warned that some of the substances seized during the raids — particularly ‘Suck and Die’ (a toxic chemical) and industrial rubber solution — are not only addictive but highly dangerous to human health. These substances, often inhaled by users for a quick high, can cause irreversible brain damage, organ failure, and death.

Codeine syrup, Rohypnol, and high-dose prescription medications such as Pregabalin and diazepam were also seized in large quantities. Officials said these drugs are often diverted from legitimate pharmaceutical supplies and sold illegally on the streets.

“These are not harmless recreational drugs. Many of them are highly addictive, with devastating consequences for users and their families,” the command stressed.

Warning to Offenders and Call for Public Support

The Kano Strategic Command has urged residents to cooperate with the agency by reporting suspicious activities and locations where drugs are stored, sold, or consumed. They stressed that community collaboration is vital to achieving a drug-free society.

“We are appealing to those involved in drug abuse or trafficking to reconsider their choices. This is not just about arrests — it is about saving lives, restoring communities, and safeguarding the future of our youths,” Maigatari said.

He warned that the agency would not relent in its efforts to make Kano State hostile to drug dealers and unsafe for their operations. “Our message is clear: if you are dealing drugs, we will find you, and the law will take its full course.”

The NDLEA reiterated its commitment to sustained action against drug-related crimes in the state. Plans are already underway to follow up on leads generated from the recent raids, with the possibility of more arrests in the coming weeks.

Since its upgrade to a strategic command level, the NDLEA Kano Command has reported an increase in operational successes, aided by better resources, enhanced coordination with other law enforcement agencies, and a growing flow of community-based intelligence.

As Kano continues to battle the scourge of drug abuse, the NDLEA has vowed that the August 7–8 operation is only the beginning of an intensified campaign. The ultimate goal, officials say, is to ensure that every street, market, and neighbourhood in the state is free from the grip of illicit drugs.

Created with clarity and precision to reflect official NDLEA updates.