The Kano State Multi-Agency Task Force on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking has successfully dismantled a major drug cartel in the state, arresting 380 suspects and recovering a cache of dangerous weapons. This was achieved through a two-month coordinated effort that involved joint dislodgment operations across notorious black spots. The task force's operations targeted areas where miscreants gather to take illicit substances before engaging in thuggery and phone snatching.
According to the Chairman of the task force, Muhuyi Magaji Rimin Gado, the committee has secured over 230 convictions since its inauguration on July 22, 2026. The task force is now focusing on rehabilitating, providing skills acquisition, and reintegrating 10,000 youths into society. The operations have led to the recovery of various substances, including Cannabis Sativa, Exol-5, Diazepam, Pentazocine Injection, Methamphetamine, Tramadol, and Pregabalin Capsules.
The task force's operations have also led to the recovery of knives, cutlasses, daggers, and clubs. The Chairman expressed concern over the diversion of controlled drugs from legitimate supply chains. A significant seizure was made when about 870,000 capsules of Pregabalin were confiscated from a leading pharmaceutical company in the state. This contravenes federal and Kano State policies on pharmaceutical warehousing.
The Chairman warned that no company or staff found culpable in diverting drugs to youths will be spared. The task force's efforts have also led to the conviction of two rubber solution dealers, Kabiru Isa (Mada) and Usman Hamisu (Mani), for exposing 43 underage children to intoxicants. The children have been rescued and are undergoing medical checks and counseling.
Efforts are underway to reunite the rescued children with their families. The task force's operations have been focused on notorious black spots, including Race Course, Filin Idi, Filin Mahaha, Tashar Rami, Kawo Area, and Tashar Rimi. The Chairman attributed the success of the task force to the collaborative efforts of the various agencies involved.
The Kano State Multi-Agency Task Force on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking was inaugurated on July 22, 2026, with a mandate to curb drug abuse and illicit trafficking in the state. Since its inauguration, the task force has made significant strides in dismantling drug cartels and rehabilitating youths.
The task force's success in arresting 380 suspects and recovering weapons is a significant blow to the drug cartel operating in Kano State. The Chairman emphasized that the task force will continue to target drug cartels and work towards a drug-free Kano State.
Key points
- 380 suspects arrested in two-month crackdown on drug cartel
- Task force secures over 230 convictions, targets 10,000 youths for rehabilitation
- 870,000 capsules of Pregabalin seized from pharmaceutical company
