By RAMATU GARBA

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Kano Strategic Command, says it has dislodged several drug joints across the state.

This, it said, led to the arrest of 21 suspects, and seizure of various illicit substances and weapons.

This is contained in a statement issued on Sunday in Kano by the command’s Public Relations Officer, Mr Sadiq Muhammad-Maigatari.

Muhammad-Maigatari quoted the agency’s State Commander, Mr Dahiru Yahaya-Lawal, as saying that the development followed the recent donation of three operational vehicles by the Kano State Government to the command.

The commander said the arrests were made on April 11, during intensified operations and raids across multiple drug joint locations in Filin Idi, Hotoro, Mariri, Fagge, and Farm Centre along Zaria Road.

He said Items recovered during the operation included dangerous locally-made weapons and illicit drugs, including cannabis sativa, pregabalin capsules, cough syrup containing codeine, rubber solution used as an inhalant, as well as various locally-made weapons.

Yahaya-Lawal added that some suspects attempted to attack operatives during the raids but were tactically disarmed and taken into custody.

“Investigations are ongoing to identify major drug dealers and build cases for prosecution,” he said.

Yahaya-Lawal noted that the vehicle donation had enhanced the command’s operational capacity.

“The timely donation of vehicles by the Kano State Government has enabled our command to extend coverage and respond swiftly to intelligence.

“We will continue to deploy these assets for sustained and visible operations to rid our communities of illicit drugs.

“Those still engaged in this illicit business should repent now before it is too late,” Yahaya-Lawal warned.

The NDLEA reaffirmed its commitment to combating drug abuse and trafficking, while calling on members of the public to support its efforts with credible information. (NAN)