NDLEA seizes 75,000 pregabalin capsules 556 codeine bottles in Kano
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency has intensified its crackdown on illicit drug trafficking in Kano State after intercepting a large consignment of controlled substances believed to be destined for illegal distribution within the state.
NDLEA seizes 75,000 pregabalin capsules, 556 codeine bottles in Kano in an operation described by authorities as a major blow to drug trafficking networks operating in northern Nigeria.
According to the Kano Strategic Command of the NDLEA, the seizure occurred during a targeted enforcement operation in the Badawa area of Kano metropolis, where operatives acted on credible intelligence regarding the movement of illicit drugs within the city. 
The intercepted drugs included 75,000 capsules of pregabalin, 556 bottles of codeine-based cough syrup and additional quantities of cannabis sativa, substances widely abused for recreational purposes despite their legitimate medical uses. 
Authorities believe the drugs were intended for distribution ahead of the Sallah celebrations, a period when demand for intoxicating substances typically increases in some communities.
Major Blow to Drug Trafficking Networks
NDLEA seizes 75,000 pregabalin capsules, 556 codeine bottles in Kano in what officials say represents a significant disruption of an illicit supply chain that could have flooded local markets with dangerous substances.
The Kano Commander of the NDLEA, Dahiru Yahaya-Lawal, described the operation as an important step in protecting residents from the harmful effects of drug abuse.
He explained that the operation was launched after intelligence reports suggested that traffickers were planning to distribute large quantities of controlled substances in the state.
“This seizure is a serious blow to the cartel’s network and protects the good people of Kano from the harms of these illicit substances,” Yahaya-Lawal said. 
Authorities also disclosed that the prime suspect linked to the consignment is currently at large, although he has been placed on the agency’s wanted list.
Growing Abuse of Pregabalin and Codeine
The seizure also highlights growing concerns among public health experts about the abuse of certain prescription medications in Nigeria.
Pregabalin is a pharmaceutical drug commonly prescribed to treat epilepsy, nerve pain and anxiety disorders. However, in recent years the substance has been increasingly abused as a recreational drug.
When consumed in excessive quantities or combined with other substances, pregabalin can cause:
• dizziness
• euphoria
• impaired coordination
• respiratory depression.
Similarly, codeine-based cough syrups, originally developed for treating cough and mild pain, have become widely misused due to their opioid properties.
Security experts say traffickers often exploit regulatory loopholes and illegal supply chains to move large quantities of such drugs across the country.
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NDLEA’s Nationwide Anti-Drug Campaign
NDLEA seizes 75,000 pregabalin capsules, 556 codeine bottles in Kano as part of the agency’s broader anti-drug campaign across Nigeria.
Under the leadership of NDLEA Chairman Brig.-Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd.), the agency has intensified operations targeting drug trafficking networks and illicit drug markets.
These operations typically involve:
• intelligence gathering
• surveillance of suspected trafficking routes
• coordinated raids on drug distribution hubs.
Authorities say such measures are essential in reducing the availability of illicit substances and protecting communities from drug-related harm.
Public Cooperation Remains Crucial
Officials have also emphasised the importance of community cooperation in combating drug trafficking.
The NDLEA commander in Kano commended members of the public for providing useful information that helped security agencies intercept the illegal consignment.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to law-enforcement authorities.
Community-based intelligence, he said, plays a vital role in helping authorities detect and dismantle drug networks before illicit substances reach consumers.
Drug Abuse and Social Consequences
Experts warn that drug abuse remains a serious social and public health challenge in Nigeria.
The widespread availability of substances such as codeine syrup, tramadol and pregabalin has been linked to:
• youth addiction
• criminal activity
• mental health problems.
Government agencies therefore consider aggressive enforcement actions like the Kano seizure essential to protecting communities.
Continuing Investigation
NDLEA seizes 75,000 pregabalin capsules, 556 codeine bottles in Kano, but authorities say investigations are ongoing to identify other individuals involved in the trafficking network.
Officials believe the intercepted drugs may have been part of a larger supply chain operating across multiple states.
The agency has therefore vowed to continue pursuing suspects and dismantling illegal drug distribution networks.
For the NDLEA, the message remains clear: traffickers will continue to face relentless enforcement actions until illicit drug markets are eliminated.
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NDLEA seizes 75,000 pregabalin capsules 556 codeine bottles in Kano
