The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Kano Strategic Command, has launched “Operation Sharar Mafaka” and arrested 52 suspects across drug-joint areas of the metropolis.
This is contained in a statement issued the command’s Public Relations Officer, Sadiq Muhammad-Maigatari, on Wednesday in Kano.
The “Sharar Mafaka” roughly translates from Hausa to “Clearing Hideouts” or “Sweeping Safe Havens.
The Commander of the agency in Kano, Mr Dahiru Yahaya-Lawal, said : “the operation is aimed at dismantling drug distribution joints and restore safety to communities.
“The operation launched on April 27, targeted more than 20 identified drug locations, leading to significant arrests and seizures within two days.
“On April 27, our officers raided Filin Idi, Tashar Rami, Fagge, Abattoir and Farm Centre, where 15 suspects were arrested and quantities of illicit drugs and paraphernalia were recovered.
“On April 28, further raids were carried out at Hotoro Flyover, Mariri Park, Ramin Jirga Tishama, Yankaba Park and Audu Bako Secretariat, resulting in the arrest of 16 suspects, including three females, as well as the recovery of assorted drugs and locally made weapons,” .
He added that on the same date, additional operations were conducted at Kwanar Ungogo, Titin Jajira, Tudun Bojuwa and parts of Sabon Gari, leading to the arrest of 21 more suspects, including one female.
“We will continue to dislodge criminal joints, arrest suspects, seize exhibits and occupy such premises until normalcy is restored.
“We call on members of the public to support the agency in the fight against drug abuse and trafficking, until our street are safe for all.”
The commander noted that the operation was in line with the directive of the NDLEA Chairman, retired Brig.-Gen. Mohammed Buba-Marwa, to ensure a drug-free society.
He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to sustained enforcement, community engagement and collaboration with stakeholders to curb illicit drug activities in the state.