The Kano State Multi-Agency Task Force on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking has seized approximately 3.18 million capsules of suspected Pregabalin in Sabon Gari, Kano, less than 24 hours after the state government launched its Rapid Response Squad.
The operation also led to the arrest of a 34-year-old man identified as Gregory Ogbuji, while another suspect allegedly connected to the operation remains at large.
According to a statement issued by the Task Force’s Secretary, Media and Publicity Committee, Lamara Garba, the seizure followed credible intelligence received through one of the reporting platforms linked to the Task Force Command and Call Centre.
The statement said operatives searched a residential apartment at No. 13 Apple Avenue, Normansland, Sabon Gari, in Fagge Local Government Area, where they recovered the suspected illicit drugs.
It added that the arrested suspect was allegedly associated with SEEMARK PHARMA LTD, registered under number 2012546, and had been charged under Section 249 of the Penal Code.
Reacting to the development, the Task Force Chairman, Muhuyi Magaji Rimin Gado, described the seizure as a significant early achievement of the newly established Rapid Response Squad.
He said the operation demonstrated the importance of intelligence-led enforcement and effective communication between residents and law enforcement agencies.
The Task Force disclosed that Pregabalin had become one of the most widely abused drugs in Kano State, noting that its operational experience showed that approximately eight out of every 10 drug-related operations involved suspects dependent on or abusing the substance.
It described the situation as a serious public health and security concern, stressing the need for sustained enforcement, public vigilance and community cooperation.
The statement said the Rapid Response Squad was established and equipped to provide coordinated and swift responses to reports of drug abuse, illicit trafficking, thuggery and other related criminal activities.
Rimin Gado warned individuals and groups involved in illicit drug trafficking to desist, assuring residents that the Task Force would continue to take decisive action against offenders without fear or favour.
He also urged residents to make 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.
He said public cooperation remained essential to strengthening security and advancing the state government’s Kano First agenda.
