By Our Correspondent

National News – The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Kano Command has intercepted a large cache of illicit drugs in Badawa, Kano.

Authorities seized 75,000 pregabalin capsules, 556 bottles of codeine cough syrup, and quantities of cannabis sativa.

NDLEA’s Public Relations Officer, Sadiq Muhammad-Maigatari, confirmed the operation on Monday, highlighting that pregabalin, a prescription pain-relief and anticonvulsant drug, has become widely abused in Nigeria.

NDLEA Commander in Kano, Mr. Dahiru Yahaya-Lawal, stated the seizure followed credible intelligence revealing the drugs were meant for illegal distribution during the upcoming Sallah celebrations.

“This operation disrupted a major supply chain targeting illicit markets in the state,” he said, emphasizing the agency’s commitment to curbing drug abuse and trafficking.

The prime suspect linked to the seizure remains at large and is now on NDLEA’s wanted list.

Yahaya-Lawal described the seizure as a “serious blow to the cartel’s network,” protecting the people of Kano from harmful substances.

He applauded public cooperation with the agency and urged residents to continue providing information that can assist in the fight against drug trafficking.

The NDLEA reaffirmed its commitment to the directive of the agency’s Chairman/CEO, retired Brig.-Gen. Mohamed Buba-Marwa, to pursue a drug-free society.

He warned traffickers to desist, stressing that offenders would be pursued relentlessly and brought to justice.

The NDLEA continues to strengthen intelligence-led operations to prevent the distribution of controlled substances, particularly during festive periods when demand typically rises.

Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to authorities, reinforcing community safety and awareness about the dangers of prescription drug abuse and illegal narcotics.