The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Kaduna State Command, said its operatives seized 13, 623.204kgs of illicit substances and arrested 1,005 suspects in 2023.
The State Commander of the agency, Samaila Danmalam, disclosed this on Friday to newsmen.
Danmalam made the disclosure when reviewing the activities of the agency for the preceding year.
He explained that in the past year, operatives of the agency arrested 1,005 suspects, 965 males and 40 females, and seized illicit substances which grossly weigh 13,623.204 kilogrammes (13.6 tonnes).
Danmalam explained that 186 illicit drug joints were also dismantled in 2023.
According to him, “the substances seized included cannabis sativa, cocaine, methamphetamine, tramadol, heroin and other psychotropic substances.
“The Command equally secured the conviction of 57 drug offenders.
“In addition, 153 suspects were charged to court while 19 vehicles were forfeited”.
He stated that the Command appreciated the importance of awareness creation to the fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking.
“The Command intensified drug demand reduction activities which led to the rehabilitation of 42 drug dependent persons, ensuring their reintegration back to mainstream society, with about 200 drug users counseled.
“Furthermore, in sensitising the citizens of the state, 34 campaigns and programmes were presented, targeting 47,615 participants across the state.”
The Commander explained that the devastating effects of drug abuse transcends individuals, manifests in homes and spirals the larger society hence the need for a renewed commitment.
Danmalam therefore,called on all to key into the fight against the drug pandemic by shunning drug abuse and illicit trafficking, keeping watchful eyes over wards and providing timely information to the command on illicit drug activities.
“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, “Danmalam said.