The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has officially confirmed the apprehension of 58 drug suspects at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano, located in the northwest region of Nigeria.

This was contained in a statement issued on Friday by Sadiq Muhammad-Maigatari, the agency’s spokesperson in the state, while quoting Abubakar Idris-Ahmad, the state commander of the agency.

According to the statement, the arrest was made on Wednesday during “Operation Hana Maye (Operation Stop Drug Abuse)”, a new anti-drug thrust launched in the state.

The new operation is intended to target drug trafficking and misuse in Kano state.

The statement reads: “On Wednesday, a raid was conducted to ensure maximum effectiveness and minimise any potential resistance at Sani Abacha Stadium which has turned to be hotspot for drug-related activities.”

He also stated that a squad of highly trained officers apprehended the 58 male drug suspects and confiscated various unlawful drugs from them.

“The arrest of the suspects is a significant victory for the NDLEA in its fight against drug-related activities in Kano State,” the statement reads.

“This operation is just the beginning. We will continue to intensify our efforts to ensure our communities are free from the scourge of illicit substances so as to have a drug-free society.”

Idris-Ahmad urged the public to offer actionable information that can help the NDLEA combat drug trafficking and misuse.

He urged the public to report any suspicious actions or people implicated in drug-related offences to the nearest NDLEA office.

He assured informants of confidentiality and protection.

“We will continue to collaborate with Kano State government, community leaders, relevant stakeholders and members of the public to fight against drug abuse,” the statement added.