In 2023, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) made significant strides in Kano State, apprehending 1,016 individuals and confiscating nine tons of illegal substances. The arrested individuals included 40 women and 976 men, as revealed by Mr. Abubakar Idris-Ahmad, the commandant of the agency in Kano State.
The agency’s efforts led to 102 successful prosecutions within the year and the seizure of five vehicles related to these crimes. However, 104 cases are still awaiting judgement in court.
The confiscated drugs comprised 6,098kg of Indian hemp, 1,696kg of codeine and tramadol, and 1,335kg of cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine. Idris-Ahmad stated, “We rehabilitated 70 clients, investigated 598 visa clearance applications, and conducted 245 substance abuse tests, out of which six persons tested positive for different drug abuses.”
In addition to enforcement, the NDLEA agency also focused on prevention and rehabilitation. “We also sensitised 5,000 individuals and engaged drug demand reduction professionals who counselled 1,459 persons,” Idris-Ahmad added.
Furthermore, the command destroyed over 15 tons of various narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances in 2023. Idris-Ahmad reaffirmed the agency’s dedication to protecting communities from the harmful effects of drug abuse.
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He assured, “We will intensify efforts at dismantling drug networks, rehabilitate those in need, secure convictions, and destroy illicit substances, leaving no room for drug trade to flourish.” (NAN) #NDLEA