Kano, November 23, 2025 – The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Kano State Strategic Command, has announced the arrest of 230 suspects involved in various drug-related offences during a comprehensive 30-day non-stop operation conducted across the state. The coordinated raids, which targeted notorious drug hotspots, also resulted in the seizure of significant quantities of illicit substances and locally made weapons.
The operation, carried out in synergy with the Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigeria Correctional Service, and the Department of State Services, was executed under the Kano State Joint Taskforce for Peace Restoration and Youth Rehabilitation, led by Dr. Yusuf Ibrahim Kofar Mata. The outgoing NDLEA Commander in Kano, ACGN Abubakar Idris Ahmad (also referred to as A.I. Ahmad in some reports), disclosed the details during a press briefing on Friday, November 21, 2025.
The raids focused on identified drug joints, including Kofar Ruwa, Tashar Rami, Rijiyar Lemo, Kurna, Mil Tara, Zage, Dorayi Karshen Waya, Dawanau, Filin Idi, Research, Rimi Market, Zango, Kofar Mata, Kano Line, and Ladanai, among others. During these operations, NDLEA operatives confiscated a variety of illicit substances, such as cannabis sativa, EXOL-5, diazepam, “suck and die,” rubber solution, and codeine syrup. Several locally made weapons were also recovered from the suspects.
Ahmad emphasized that the initiative underscores the commitment of NDLEA and its partner agencies to eradicate drug abuse, which serves as a major enabler of crimes including thuggery, phone snatching, and other social vices. He noted that the efforts have led to a noticeable reduction in substance abuse and related criminal activities in Kano State, which has long been recognized as a hub for drug trafficking.
The commander expressed profound gratitude to the Kano State Government under Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for its unwavering support in curbing substance abuse and thuggery. He highlighted how the state’s visible initiatives have significantly bolstered ongoing security and rehabilitation programs. Ahmad also commended the dedication and professionalism of all participating officers, including specific praise for the leadership of Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Adamu Bakori and the Department of State Services for their surveillance support.
Furthermore, Dr. Yusuf Ibrahim Kofar Mata, Chairman of the Joint Taskforce and Commissioner for Science, Technology and Innovation, affirmed the state government’s commitment to sustaining the fight against drug abuse. He stated that some of the arrested suspects have already begun rehabilitation processes, while others remain under investigation and will face prosecution upon completion.
Ahmad urged residents, particularly parents, civil society groups, and community leaders, to continue supporting anti-drug efforts to foster a safer and healthier Kano State. The NDLEA reiterated its resolve to maintain pressure on drug syndicates and make the region increasingly hostile to traffickers, abusers, and related criminal actors.
NDLEA Bust: 230 Suspects Arrested in Kano with a Massive Drug Cache
