NDLEA Arrests 599, Seizes 3.9 Tonnes of Illicit Drugs in Sokoto
By Fahad Faruk Galadanchi
The Sokoto State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency NDLEA has arrested 599 suspected drug offenders and confiscated 3.9 tonnes of illicit drugs over the past year in a renewed effort to curb drug trafficking and abuse in the state.
The State Commander Mustapha M. Gidado, disclosed this on Friday while addressing journalists at a press conference held to commemorate the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse.
He said the arrests involved 532 male and 67 female suspects, adding that 24 offenders had been convicted, while 33 cases were still awaiting trial.
According to Gidado, the seized drugs comprised 1.2 tonnes of cannabis sativa, 127.529 kilograms of psychotropic substances and 2.5 tonnes of codeine based cough syrup.
He said the command also intensified its drug demand reduction efforts, with 65 persons receiving rehabilitation and counselling for substance use disorders, while over 200 others, including 55 women, benefited from brief intervention and counselling services.
The commander noted that insecurity, inadequate logistics, limited surveillance along remote border corridors, and shortages of operational vehicles and communication equipment continued to hamper the command’s activities.
He appealed to the Federal Government and relevant stakeholders to provide greater logistical support to strengthen the agency’s operations.
Gidado expressed appreciation to the Sokoto State Government, the Sultanate Council, and other partners for their continued support, pledging that the command would maintain its offensive against drug trafficking networks, drug dens, cannabis plantations, and outlets involved in the distribution of illicit substances.
He further urged parents, traditional and community leaders, as well as young people, to work closely with the NDLEA by reporting suspicious drug-related activities, discouraging drug abuse, and supporting rehabilitation efforts for affected individuals.
