TheCable

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Kaduna state command, says its operatives seized 13,623.204kgs of illicit substances and arrested 1,005 suspects in 2023.

Speaking with NAN on Friday, Samaila Danmalam, the NDLEA Kaduna commander, said the suspects consist of 965 males and 40 females.

He added that convictions have been secured for some of those arrested.

“The substances seized included cannabis sativa, cocaine, methamphetamine, tramadol, heroin and other psychotropic substances,” he said.

“The command equally secured the conviction of 57 drug offenders.

“In addition, 153 suspects were charged to court while 19 vehicles were forfeited.”

Danmalam said the command intensified drug demand reduction activities which led to the rehabilitation of 42 drug dependent persons, ensuring their reintegration back to society.

“Furthermore, in sensitizing the citizens of the state, 34 campaigns and programmes were presented, targeting 47,615 participants across the state,” he said.

The commander said the devastating effects of drug abuse transcends individuals, manifests in homes and spirals the larger society, hence the need for renewed commitment.

Danmalam called on stakeholders to key into the fight against the drug pandemic, keep watchful eyes over wards and provide timely information on illicit drug activities to the command.

“The state command appreciates the state government, royal fathers, sister agencies, NGOs, the media and the citizens of the state for the support accorded to the command with a call for sustenance,” he said.