The Kano State Multi-Agency Task Force on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking has seized approximately 3.18 million capsules suspected to be Pregabalin in Sabon Gari, Kano, less than 24 hours after Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf launched the state’s Rapid Response Squad.
The seizure followed credible intelligence received through one of the reporting platforms linked to the Task Force Command and Call Centre, prompting operatives to swiftly investigate a suspected drug-related operation in the state.
According to a press release signed by Lamara Garba, Secretary of the Task Force’s Media and Publicity Committee, the operation led to the search of a residential apartment at No. 13 Apple Avenue, Normansland, Sabon Gari, in Fagge Local Government Area.
READ ALSO: Kano’s War On Drugs: How Barr. Muhyi’s Taskforce Is Changing The Game, Narrative
During the operation, the operatives reportedly recovered approximately 3,180,000 capsules suspected to be Pregabalin and arrested a 34-year-old man identified as Gregory Ogbuji.
The statement said the suspect was suspected to be associated with SEEMARK PHARMA LTD, registered under number 2012546, adding that he had been charged under Section 249 of the Penal Code. Another suspect allegedly connected to the operation is reportedly at large.
Reacting to the development, Chairman of the Task Force, Muhuyi Magaji Rimin Gado, described the seizure as a significant early achievement of the Rapid Response Squad, saying it demonstrated the importance of intelligence-led enforcement and effective communication between residents and law enforcement agencies.
The Task Force expressed concern over the growing abuse of Pregabalin in Kano, describing it as one of the most widely abused substances in the state.
According to the statement, the Task Force’s operational experience indicates that approximately eight out of every 10 drug-related operations involve suspects dependent on or abusing Pregabalin.
It described the trend as a serious public health and security concern, warning that the widespread abuse of the substance could undermine public safety and increase the challenges associated with drug-related crimes.
The Task Force said the latest operation was among the first major outcomes of the investment in establishing and equipping the Rapid Response Squad, which was designed to provide coordinated and swift responses to reports of drug abuse, illicit trafficking, thuggery and other related criminal activities.
Muhuyi warned individuals and groups involved in illicit drug trafficking to desist, assuring residents that the Task Force would continue to take firm action against offenders without fear or favour.
He also commended members of the public for their prayers, cooperation and continued support, urging residents to make effective use of the Task Force’s reporting platforms and Command and Call Centre to provide credible information about suspected drug abuse, trafficking, thuggery and other criminal activities.
The chairman maintained that community participation remained essential to strengthening public safety and supporting the state government’s Kano First agenda.