NAN-H-25
Drugs
By Zubairu Idris
Katsina, July 4, 2017 (NAN) The National Drugs Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) says it has arrested no fewer than 412 people in Katsina State for drugs-related offences between January and June.
Hajiya Maryam Gambo, the State Commandant of the agency, made this known on Tuesday in Katsina.
Gambo said that 206.2 kilogrammes of various types of illicit drugs were seized from the suspects during the period under review.
She said that 34 suspects had been prosecuted and were now serving various jail terms in prisons, while 95 cases were still at various stages of trial in the state High Courts.
“More than 20 of the arrested suspects are young females between 18 and 25 years,’’ the state commandant said.
Gambo expressed concern that some of the suspects were students of institutions of higher learning in the state.
“The rate at which youths abuse drugs in the state is alarming.
“Today’s occasion is aimed at blowing our trumpet so that the world can see our successes, challenges and projection in the quest to tackle drug crimes in the state,’’ she said.
The commandant listed some of the drugs seized to include: cannabis sativa, tramadol, cough syrups, rubber solution and other different types of psychotropic substances.
She said that the theme of 2017 United Nations Day Against Drug Abuse was entitled: “Listen First’’.
“Parents and guardians should `listen’ to their children and understand their needs to prevent them from being involved in drug abuse and trafficking,’’ Gambo said.
The commandant solicited for continuous support of sister agencies and other stakeholders in the ongoing fight against drug abuse and trafficking in the state.
She also commended the state government for constructing a centre for the rehabilitation of addicted persons. (NAN)
ZI/OIF/GOK
Edited by Ifeyinwa Okonkwo/Olagoke Olatoye