Kano Task Force Seizes 3.18m Pregabalin Capsules in Major Operation

The Kano State Multi-Agency Task Force on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking has achieved a significant success in its fight against drug abuse and trafficking. Barely 24 hours after the launch of the Rapid Response Squad, the Task Force seized approximately 3,180,000 capsules suspected to be Pregabalin in the Sabon Gari area of Kano. This operation was made possible by credible intelligence received through one of the reporting platforms linked to the Task Force Command and Call Centre.

The seizure was made during a search of a residential apartment at No. 13 Apple Avenue, Normansland, Sabon Gari, in Fagge Local Government Area. The operatives identified the apartment as a suspected hub for illicit activities and recovered the large quantity of Pregabalin capsules. A 34-year-old man identified as Gregory Ogbuji was arrested in connection with the seizure. He is suspected to be associated with SEEMARK PHARMA LTD, registered under number 2012546.

The Task Force has charged Gregory Ogbuji under Section 249 of the Penal Code. Another suspect allegedly connected to the operation is currently at large. The Chairman of the Task Force, Muhuyi Magaji Rimin Gado, described the seizure as a significant early result of the Rapid Response Squad. He stressed that it demonstrated the importance of intelligence-led enforcement and effective communication between the public and law enforcement agencies.

According to the Task Force, Pregabalin has emerged as one of the most widely abused drugs in Kano State. Approximately eight out of every 10 drug-related operations involve suspects dependent on or abusing Pregabalin. The Task Force described the development as a serious public health and security concern. They emphasized that sustained enforcement, public vigilance, and community cooperation would be critical to tackling the growing challenge of substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking in the state.

The latest operation is one of the first major outcomes of the investment in establishing and equipping the Rapid Response Squad. The Squad was designed to provide a coordinated and rapid response to reports of drug abuse, illicit trafficking, thuggery, and other related crimes. The Task Force’s success is a result of the cooperation and support of the public, who provided credible information on suspected drug abuse and trafficking.

The Chairman of the Task Force warned individuals and groups involved in the illicit drug trade to desist from their activities. He assured residents that the Task Force would continue to take firm action against offenders without fear or favour. He also expressed appreciation to members of the public for their prayers, cooperation, and continued support.

The Task Force urged residents to make full use of the reporting platforms and Command and Call Centre to provide credible information on suspected drug abuse, trafficking, thuggery, and other criminal activities. The cooperation of residents remains essential to strengthening public safety and advancing the state government’s “Kano First” agenda. The Task Force will continue to work tirelessly to tackle the growing challenge of substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking in Kano State.

Key points

• The Kano State Multi-Agency Task Force seized 3.18m Pregabalin capsules in a major operation in the Sabon Gari area.