In the year 2023, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Kano State accomplished significant strides in the battle against drug-related offenses. The Commandant of the NDLEA in Kano State, Mr. Abubakar Idris-Ahmad, disclosed on Sunday that a total of 1,016 suspects, comprising 40 females and 976 males, were arrested during the year.
Mr. Idris-Ahmad highlighted that the agency secured 102 convictions in the outgoing year, leading to the forfeiture of five vehicles. Additionally, there are 104 cases still pending in court, showcasing the commitment to legal proceedings against drug-related crimes.
The drug seizures were notably substantial, with the confiscation of 6,098kg of Indian hemp, 1,696kg of codeine and tramadol, and 1,335kg of cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine. The NDLEA also took proactive measures in addressing substance abuse issues, rehabilitating 70 clients, investigating 598 visa clearance applications, and conducting 245 substance abuse tests, revealing six individuals who tested positive for various drug abuses.
A comprehensive approach was adopted to address drug-related challenges, including community sensitization initiatives that reached 5,000 individuals and engagement with drug demand reduction professionals who provided counseling to 1,459 persons.
The commitment to eradicating the drug trade and its detrimental consequences on communities was further emphasized by the destruction of over 15 tons of assorted narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances in 2023. Commandant Idris-Ahmad reiterated the NDLEA’s dedication to ensuring the well-being and safety of communities by intensifying efforts to dismantle drug networks, rehabilitate those in need, secure convictions, and eradicate illicit substances, thereby preventing the flourishing of the drug trade.