 has intercepted a staggering 2.5 tonnes of various illicit substances between January and June 2025.){kind=link}
In a sweeping crackdown on drug trafficking, the Katsina State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has intercepted a staggering 2.5 tonnes of various illicit substances between January and June 2025.
The State Commander, Mr. Sama’ila Danmalam, disclosed the figures at a press briefing held in Katsina on Thursday, as part of events marking the United Nations International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
Danmalam revealed that the agency intercepted 1,322 kilograms of cannabis, 2,469 kilograms of codeine, and over 1,120 kilograms of other psychotropic substances within the six-month period.
He added that 424 suspected drug dealers were arrested during the operations, with 44 arraigned before the Federal High Court and 32 already convicted and serving jail terms in various correctional centres across the state.
“The seizures are a testament to our resolve to rid Katsina of the menace of drug abuse and trafficking,” Danmalam said.
Beyond enforcement, the NDLEA also recorded major strides in prevention and sensitisation. According to the commander, over 21,565 residents have been sensitised on the dangers of drug abuse, with many already showing signs of behavioural change.
“This year’s campaign theme, ‘The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention’, underscores the urgency for data-driven and compassionate drug policies. We must continue to rely on science, research, and a full understanding of the socio-economic and health implications of substance abuse,” he noted.
As part of the awareness activities, the command organized interfaith outreach programs including Juma’at sermons and Sunday services to preach against drug abuse from a moral and religious standpoint. A novelty football match themed “War Against Drug Abuse (WADA)” also held to engage the youth and spread the message through sports.
Danmalam stressed the importance of community involvement in fighting the drug crisis:
“This is not just a law enforcement issue—it is a societal one. Together, we can build a healthier, safer Katsina where individuals are empowered to live drug-free, productive lives.”
The Katsina NDLEA’s achievements come amid rising concerns over drug abuse across Northern Nigeria, with authorities doubling down on enforcement and education to curb the tide.
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