NDLEA Crackdown in Kano with ‘Operation Ramadan Mubarak,’ 13 Arrested

NDLEA Intensifies Crackdown in Kano with ‘Operation Ramadan Mubarak,’ 13 Arrested

The Kano State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency has rolled out a special enforcement drive tagged Operation Ramadan Mubarak, leading to the arrest of 13 suspected drug dealers and users across parts of the state.

The initiative, unveiled on Thursday, is aimed at disrupting drug distribution networks ahead of the Ramadan fasting period. Authorities say the move is designed to prevent traffickers from exploiting the holy month to expand the circulation of illicit substances.

According to a statement issued on Friday, the state commander, Dahiru Yahaya-Lawal, is spearheading the operation, which focuses on tightening security surveillance and dismantling identified drug hotspots within Kano metropolis and surrounding communities.

Coordinated Raids Across Key Areas

During the launch phase of the operation, NDLEA operatives conducted simultaneous raids in several areas, including Kofar Mata, Danzaki Village, Fagge, Kofar Wambai and the Rimi axis.

The enforcement actions resulted in the arrest of 13 suspects, among them two women. Officers also reportedly seized various banned substances, including cannabis, diazepam tablets, locally abused mixtures known as “suck and die,” and rubber solution.

Officials said the raids were intelligence-led and formed part of a broader strategy to strengthen checkpoints, increase patrol presence and cut off supply routes into the state.

Yahaya-Lawal noted that the command was determined to prevent criminal elements from taking advantage of increased social and religious gatherings during Ramadan.

“This operation is proactive and guided by credible intelligence,” he said. “Our goal is to safeguard worshippers, families and communities from the dangers associated with drug abuse and related crimes, especially during this sacred period.”

He expressed concern that the misuse of narcotics often contributes to violent and opportunistic crimes, particularly at a time when residents gather for prayers and social activities.

Focus on Prevention and Community Partnership

The Kano NDLEA command said the operation aligns with directives from the agency’s chairman and chief executive officer, Mohamed Buba-Marwa, to intensify enforcement activities nationwide.

Under the plan, patrol teams will be expanded, road checkpoints reinforced and surveillance operations sustained throughout Ramadan. The command also pledged to maintain intelligence-driven interventions beyond the fasting period.

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Authorities emphasised that enforcement alone would not solve the problem, calling for stronger collaboration with community leaders, religious institutions and residents.

Yahaya-Lawal urged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities linked to drug trafficking to the nearest NDLEA office or through official communication channels.

He stressed that community support is critical in reducing drug abuse and ensuring public safety, noting that sustained cooperation can help protect public health and preserve the sanctity of religious observances.

Ramadan, a period marked by fasting, prayer and reflection for Muslims worldwide, typically sees increased community gatherings in Kano, one of Nigeria’s predominantly Muslim states. Law enforcement agencies often heighten security during the season to address potential risks.

The latest operation signals the agency’s intent to combine preventive measures with decisive enforcement in a bid to curb drug-related crimes and maintain peace across the state.