NDLEA Apprehends 1,018 People In Katsina, Seizes Over 2.4 Tonnes of Drugs

The Katsina State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) arrested 1,018 suspects and seized more than 2.4 tonnes of illicit drugs across the state in 2025.

The disclosure was made on Tuesday during the command’s end-of-year press briefing in Katsina by the State Commander, Mr. Samaila Danmalam.

Danmalam said the arrests and seizures were carried out through intelligence-led raids and sustained patrols aimed at dismantling drug trafficking networks and reducing substance abuse in the state.

He explained that the suspects comprised 992 men and 26 women, while the total quantity of drugs recovered stood at 2,473.755 kilograms.

According to him, the seized substances included 12.348 kilograms of codeine syrup, 793.66 kilograms of psychotropic substances, and 1,667.747 kilograms of cannabis sativa.

On prosecution, the NDLEA commander revealed that 86 suspects were arraigned in court during the year, resulting in 87 convictions. He attributed the success to improved collaboration between investigators and prosecuting officers.

Danmalam also noted that the command intensified its War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) sensitisation campaign in 2025, reaching 75,135 people through 203 awareness programmes across the state.

He added that 58 clients were admitted for rehabilitation, while 451 individuals battling drug addiction received counselling.

Despite the progress recorded, Danmalam said the command continued to face operational challenges, including a shortage of operational vehicles, inadequate office infrastructure, and insufficient accommodation for officers.

He assured residents that the NDLEA would remain committed to combating drug abuse and trafficking in Katsina State, while appealing for support to address the identified challenges.