The Kano State Multi-Agency Task Force on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking has seized about 3.18 million capsules suspected to be pregabalin in Sabon Gari, barely 24 hours after Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf launched the Rapid Response Squad.
The seizure followed intelligence received through one of the reporting platforms connected to the task force’s command and call centre, according to a statement issued on Saturday by Lamara Garba, Secretary of the task force’s Media and Publicity Committee.
Acting on the information, operatives of the Rapid Response Squad raided a residential apartment at No. 13 Apple Avenue, Nomansland, Sabon Gari, in Fagge Local Government Area, suspected to be used for illegal activities.
The operation led to the recovery of approximately 3,180,000 capsules suspected to be pregabalin and the arrest of a 34-year-old man identified as Gregory Ogbuji.
The statement said the suspect was allegedly associated with Seemark Pharma Ltd, registered under number 2012546, and had been charged under Section 249 of the Penal Code.
Another suspect believed to be connected to the operation is still at large.
The task force chairman, Muhuyi Magaji Rimin Gado, described the seizure as an important early achievement of the newly established Rapid Response Squad.
He said the operation demonstrated the importance of using intelligence and strengthening communication between residents and security agencies.
According to the task force, “pregabalin has become one of the most commonly abused drugs in Kano State, with its operational records showing that about eight out of every 10 drug-related operations involve people dependent on or abusing the substance.”
It described the situation as a major public health and security concern, stressing that continued enforcement and public cooperation were necessary to tackle drug abuse and illegal trafficking.
The operation is among the first major results of the Rapid Response Squad, established and equipped to respond quickly to reports of drug abuse, illicit trafficking, thuggery and other related crimes.
Muhuyi warned individuals and groups involved in illegal drug activities to stop, assuring residents that the task force would continue to enforce the law without fear or favour.