The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, in Katsina State has announced that it arrested 919 suspects, seized over 563 kilogrammes of drugs, and secured 76 convictions in the bid to tackle the escalating drug menace in the state in 2023.
The confiscated drugs comprised 450.963 kilogrammes of cannabis and 111.5911 kilograms of various psychotropic substances.
Notably, the agency said it secured the interim forfeiture of one Sienna vehicle and finalised the forfeiture of 33 abandoned motorcycles and one prime Nissan vehicle during the period under review.
Addressing the media during the Command’s end-of-year briefing, the State’s Area Commander, CN Sani Abubakar, acknowledged the challenges posed by banditry in 2023. He stated, “The year 2023 was challenging due to banditry. However, we persevered and performed optimally in combating drug abuse.”
While highlighting the gravity of the drug problem, Abubakar noted that Katsina rank as the second-highest in substance abuse within the North-West region. Beyond the arrests, the Commander of Narcotics revealed the agency’s efforts to provide support, counseling 842 suspects, and enrolling 82 individuals into their rehabilitation programme.
Abubakar said the agency organised 148 awareness programmes through their War Against Drug Abuse (WADA), educating nearly 80,000 individuals about the perils of drug use while offering alternative pathways.
According to Abubakar, the Command’s achievements extended to busting drug-related parties and administering drug integrity tests to employees of major companies in Katsina State.
However, CN Abubakar noted that the scarcity of logistical support and the uncooperative stance of some members of the populace has being a major setback, hindering broader operational expansion in the state.
He warned against any attempts to obstruct or intimidate NDLEA officers in carrying out their duties, emphasising that such interference constitutes an offense and will not be treated lightly.
CN Abubakar urged residents in the state to perceive the agency as partners striving for the betterment of society. He stressed that the agency’s efforts were for the benefit of society as a whole.
Abubakar expressed confidence that with collaborative efforts from the state government, community leaders, and residents, Katsina could reverse the trend of substance abuse. He stressed the importance of collective action in raising awareness and supporting rehabilitation initiatives to forge a safer, healthier future for the citizens of Katsina.
