The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency has rolled out a special enforcement drive, codenamed “Operation Ramadan Mubarak,” aimed at cutting off illicit drug circulation in Kano ahead of the Ramadan fasting season.
The initiative, announced in a statement on Friday, signals a renewed crackdown on drug dealers and criminal syndicates believed to exploit the spiritual period to expand their trade.
According to the agency, the operation is being spearheaded by the Kano State Commander, Dahiru Yahaya-Lawal, under the directive of the NDLEA’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Mohamed Buba-Marwa.
The strategy focuses on tightening surveillance, reinforcing checkpoints and dismantling drug hotspots across the state.
Security sweep across Kano
Officials disclosed that coordinated raids were conducted shortly after the operation was inaugurated on Thursday.
Areas affected include Kofar Mata, Danzaki Village, Fagge, Kofar Wambai and Rimi within the Kano metropolis.
During the enforcement sweep, operatives apprehended 13 suspects, among them two women.
Various prohibited substances were also seized, including cannabis, diazepam, a locally abused mixture known as “suck and die,” and rubber solution.
Commander Yahaya-Lawal described the exercise as intelligence-based and preventive rather than reactive.
“Ramadan is a sacred period marked by reflection and discipline. We will not allow criminal elements to take advantage of it to distribute harmful substances,” he said.
Protecting communities during Ramadan
The NDLEA expressed concern that drug abuse often fuels violent and opportunistic crimes, especially during large religious gatherings.
Authorities warned that unchecked drug circulation poses risks not only to public health but also to security during the fasting period.
“Our goal is clear,” Yahaya-Lawal added. “We are determined to protect families, worshippers and communities from the social and security consequences of drug abuse.”
Furthermore, the agency stressed that patrol teams and intelligence units would remain active throughout Ramadan to ensure sustained enforcement.
Call for public cooperation
Beyond enforcement, the NDLEA urged residents to collaborate with security agencies by sharing credible information about drug-related activities.
Community support, officials noted, remains critical to safeguarding public health and ensuring peaceful observance of Ramadan across Kano State.
With Operation Ramadan Mubarak now underway, authorities insist that the campaign will continue until drug supply routes and distribution hubs within the state are effectively disrupted.