NDLEA Seizes 75,000 Pregabalin Capsules, 556 Bottles of Codeine in Major Kano Crackdown Ahead of Sallah

Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Kano State have recorded a significant breakthrough in the fight against illicit drug trafficking, seizing 75,000 capsules of pregabalin, 556 bottles of codeine syrup, and additional quantities of cannabis sativa during a coordinated enforcement operation in the state.

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NDLEA Seizes 75,000 Pregabalin Capsules, 556 Bottles of…🤖 AI Summary

The operation, carried out by the NDLEA Kano Strategic Command, followed credible intelligence indicating that a large consignment of prohibited and controlled substances was being stockpiled for distribution ahead of the forthcoming Sallah celebrations. The raid was executed in the Badawa area of Kano, a location identified as a potential hub for the storage and redistribution of illicit drugs within the metropolis.

Spokesperson for the command, Sadiq Maigatari, disclosed that the successful operation effectively disrupted what authorities believe would have been a substantial supply of illegal drugs into black markets across Kano State and possibly beyond. According to him, the seizure represents a proactive intervention aimed at preventing an anticipated spike in drug abuse and trafficking commonly associated with festive periods.

Maigatari explained that intelligence reports had suggested that drug traffickers were planning to flood the market with large quantities of psychoactive substances to exploit the heightened social activities and gatherings that typically accompany the Sallah festivities. Acting swiftly on this information, NDLEA operatives mobilised and conducted a targeted raid that led to the discovery and confiscation of the drugs before they could be distributed.

“Although the prime suspect remains at large, he is currently under careful surveillance and every effort is being made to effect his arrest and bring him to justice,” Maigatari said in a statement issued after the operation.

He further assured the public that the agency has intensified monitoring efforts and is closing in on the principal suspect believed to be responsible for orchestrating the distribution network. Investigations are ongoing to dismantle the broader supply chain and identify accomplices linked to the seized consignment.

The confiscated substances include a substantial quantity of pregabalin capsules, a prescription medication often abused for its psychoactive effects. When misused, pregabalin can cause euphoria, dizziness, and hallucinations, making it a popular drug among youths seeking recreational highs. The 556 bottles of codeine syrup seized in the operation also represent a major concern for authorities, as codeine-based cough syrups have been widely abused across Nigeria, particularly among young people.

Cannabis sativa, another substance recovered during the raid, remains one of the most commonly trafficked illicit drugs in the country. The NDLEA has repeatedly warned that the combination of cannabis and pharmaceutical opioids poses serious public health and security risks.

Describing the operation as a decisive blow against drug trafficking networks operating in Kano, the agency emphasised that the seizure would significantly reduce the circulation of harmful substances during the festive period.

“This seizure is a serious blow to the cartel’s network and protects the good people of Kano from the harms of these illicit substances,” the statement added.

The NDLEA noted that festive seasons often witness increased attempts by traffickers to distribute drugs, capitalising on large gatherings, heightened commercial activities, and relaxed social environments. By intercepting the drugs ahead of Sallah, the agency said it had prevented potential cases of substance abuse, violence, accidents, and other social consequences associated with drug misuse.

The Kano Strategic Command reiterated its unwavering commitment to combating drug abuse and trafficking in line with the directives of the NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Mohamed Buba Marwa. Under Marwa’s leadership, the agency has intensified its nationwide operations, focusing on both supply reduction and demand reduction strategies.

Maigatari stated that the command remains vigilant and will continue to deploy intelligence-driven operations to track and dismantle drug syndicates operating within Kano and neighbouring states. He added that collaboration with other security agencies and community stakeholders has been strengthened to ensure a sustained clampdown on illegal drug activities.

The agency also expressed appreciation to members of the public whose cooperation and timely provision of information contributed to the success of the operation. According to the command, community engagement remains a critical component of its strategy, as actionable intelligence from residents often helps to identify suspicious activities and locations used by traffickers.

“The NDLEA Kano Strategic Command thanks members of the public for the ongoing cooperation that makes such operations possible and urges residents to continue to provide actionable intelligence,” the statement said.

Authorities urged parents, religious leaders, and community heads to remain vigilant and to educate young people about the dangers of substance abuse. The agency warned that drug abuse not only affects individual health but also contributes to crime, domestic violence, school dropout rates, and broader social instability.