Police arrest 17, recover illicit drugs in Jigawa

The Jigawa State Police Command has arrested 17 suspected drug dealers and recovered 4,658 wraps of illicit drugs during coordinated operations across the state.

The arrests were made during intelligence-led raids carried out in several local government areas, including Dutse, Guri, Gumel, Kazaure, Ringim, Birnin Kudu, Kafin Hausa and Malam-Madori.

In a statement issued on Thursday in Dutse, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Shi’isu Adam, said the operation was part of the command’s renewed crackdown on drug abuse and related crimes.

He said the suspects were arrested at known drug-dealing spots following credible intelligence.

According to him, the principal suspect, Mutari Shu’aibu, a 20-year-old from Dutse Local Government Area, was found in possession of a large quantity of hard drugs meant for distribution.

“In our sustained efforts to rid Jigawa State of drug abuse and criminal activities, 17 suspects were arrested and 4,658 wraps of illicit drugs were recovered,” Adam said.

He added that all recovered exhibits had been properly documented and would be presented in court as evidence.

The PPRO confirmed that the suspects have been charged to court following discreet investigations.

Adam quoted the Commissioner of Police, CP Dahiru Muhammad, as commending the officers involved in the operation and assuring residents that the command would not relent in its fight against drug trafficking.

“The command will continue its aggressive onslaught against drug dealers to protect the safety of residents and the future of our youths,” he said.

The police also urged members of the public to support law enforcement by providing timely and useful information on criminal activities in their communities.