The National Drugs Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Commandant in Sokoto State, Mr Iro Muhammad, says the agency has embarked on Special Operations to ensure Drugs free elections.
Mr Iro Muhammad who stated this in his office while briefing Journalists in the State explained that the operation was part of the directive by the agency’s Director General, Buba Marwa to ensure Drugs free environment before, during and after the general elections.
According to him, no fewer than 64 suspects, including seven drug dealers with 517 kilograms of illicit drugs were arrested in some hotels and other joints in the state.
“Our operatives in the first raid seized 473 kilograms of Cannabis sativa, 4.3 kilograms of codeine, 10 grams of Rafinole and seven grams of methamphetamine.
“We also arrested 64 suspected persons, which during investigation identified seven to be among suspected drug dealers in the state.
“A total of 57 others were identified as drug users who will be engaged in the rehabilitation program of NDLEA.
“However, the seven suspected dealers will soon be charged to court as soon as investigation is over.“
The Commandant commended other sister security agencies for their support towards ensuring the successful conduct of the operation.
He added that the operation would continue and be sustained even after the elections.
“It’s part of the NDLEA war against drug abuse and to sensitise the society of criminal elements ahead of forthcoming elections in the state.
“We are optimistic that without the consumption of hard drugs, criminal activities and other social vices will be minimal, if not totally addressed,” he said.
Iro said the command would continue to sensitise all state hotel operators on the need to evaluate their customers and details of their activities in their facilities.
The Commandant warned that the NDLEA would not hesitate to seal any hotel found to be harbouring drug dealers.
He urged members of the communities to continue to supply the agency with credible information which would help curtail drug abuse activities across the state.
PIAK
