NDLEA arrests 52 suspects, seizes assorted illicit drugs in Kano

By Maduabuchi Nmeribeh/Kano

In a renewed wave of fight against drug barons and users of illicit substances, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Kano Strategic Command, has launched “Operation Sharar Mafaka,” during which 53 suspects and assorted illicit drugs were arrested and apprehended.

Sadiq Muhammad Maigatari,

Assistant Superintendent of Narcotics, who is also the

Public Relations Officer of Kano NDLEA Strategic Command told our Correspondent that the operation was carried out during, “a sustained campaign to dislodge and occupy notorious drug joints across the Kano metropolis.

“The operation, which began on 27 April 2026, targeted more than 20 known drug locations and resulted in significant arrests and seizures over the course of two days.”

According to him: “At the launch on 27 April, operatives raided the infamous Filin Idi drug dens, Tashar Rami, Fagge, Abattoir, and Farm Centre, arresting 15 suspects and seizing quantities of illicit substances and paraphernalia.

” Acting on the operation’s momentum, officers conducted further raids on the morning of 28 April in Hotoro Flyover, Mariri Park, Ramin Jirga Tishama, Yankaba Park, and Audu Bako Secretariat, arresting an additional 16 suspects including 3 female suspects, and recovering assorted illicit drugs and locally made weapons. On the evening of 28 April, additional operations in Kwanar Ungogo, Titin Jajira, Tudun Bojuwa and parts of Sabon Gari yielded 21 more arrests, including one female suspect, and the seizure of various illicit substances and evidentiary items. In total, 52 suspects were arrested during the raids, including four females, and assorted drugs and paraphernalia were recovered and secured.”

Also speaking on the operation, the Commander in-Zcharge, D.Y Lawal, described the strategy as, “dislodge and occupy.

“We will dislodge criminal joints, arrest suspects, seize exhibits, and occupy premises until normalcy is restored. This is what we will continue to do under Operation Sharar Mafaka. We call on the general public to join us in this fight until our streets are safe for all.”

Lawal further stated that, “operation Sharar Mafaka is part of the Kano Command’s sustained effort to dismantle drug distribution points and restore safety to communities. The action is fully aligned with the NDLEA Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Brig Gen Mohammed Buba Marwa (rtd), CON, OFR’s agenda of a drug‑free society.

“The NDLEA Kano Strategic Command reiterates its commitment to ongoing enforcement, community engagement, and partnership with citizens to eliminate illicit drug activity.”