The Kano State Multi-Agency Task Force on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking has successfully rescued 43 children who were allegedly exposed to intoxicants by two "rubber solution" dealers in the state. The task force, established by Governor Abba Yusuf on July 22, 2026, has been actively working to combat drug abuse and illicit trafficking in Kano. The rescued children were engaged in street scavenging and were given intoxicants instead of proper payment for their services.
The two dealers, identified as Kabiru Isa, aka Mada, and Usman Hamisu, aka Mani, have been convicted for allegedly supplying "rubber solution" and other intoxicating substances to the children. The task force's chairman, Muhuyi Magaji, revealed that the dealers' actions had exposed the children to the harmful effects of substance abuse. The rescued children have undergone medical examinations and are currently receiving counselling and treatment.
Efforts are ongoing to trace the families of the rescued children, with some already being identified and reunited. The task force's operations have also led to the dislodging of several suspected drug joints and criminal hideouts across the state. Over 380 suspects have been arrested, and more than 230 convictions have been secured within two months of the task force's inauguration.
The task force has recovered assorted illicit substances, including Cannabis Sativa, Exol-5, Diazepam, Pentazocine, Tramadol, Pregabalin, and a designer drug containing methamphetamine. These substances were seized during operations in various areas, including Race Course, Filin Idi, Filin Mahaha, Tashar Rami, and Kawo.
In addition to the rescued children, about 125 individuals have been referred to the Kano Reformatory Institute, Kiru, for rehabilitation. The increasing demand for rehabilitation has forced the institute to reach capacity, prompting the state government to provide an additional facility in Tofa Local Government Area.
The task force is targeting 10,000 youths for rehabilitation, skills acquisition, and reintegration into society. The committee is engaging industrial stakeholders to create employment and other productive opportunities for rehabilitated youths. This initiative aims to provide a comprehensive approach to addressing substance abuse and illicit trafficking in Kano.
The task force's efforts have yielded significant results, with over 380 suspects arrested and more than 230 convictions secured. The chairman, Muhuyi Magaji, emphasized that the task force will continue to work tirelessly to dismantle drug joints and criminal hideouts across the state, ensuring a safer and healthier environment for Kano's residents.
Key points
- 43 children rescued from substance abuse
- 380 suspects arrested in two months
- 10,000 youths targeted for rehabilitation
