The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) says it has arrested 58 drug suspects at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano.

In a statement on Friday, Sadiq Muhammad-Maigatari, the agency’s spokesperson, quoted Abubakar Idris-Ahmad, the state commander of the agency, as saying that the arrest was made on Wednesday during ‘Operation Hana Maye (Operation Stop Drug Abuse)’, a new anti-drug thrust launched in the state.

The new operation aims to combat drug trafficking and abuse in Kano state.

“On Wednesday, a raid was conducted to ensure maximum effectiveness and minimise any potential resistance at Sani Abacha Stadium which has turned to be hotspot for drug-related activities,” the statement reads.

He added that a team of highly-trained officers arrested the 58 male drug suspects and various illicit substances were recovered from them.

“The arrest of the suspects is a significant victory for the NDLEA in its fight against drug-related activities in Kano State,” the statement reads.

“This operation is just the beginning. We will continue to intensify our efforts to ensure our communities are free from the scourge of illicit substances so as to have a drug-free society.”

Idris-Ahmad called on the public to provide actionable information that could assist the NDLEA in the fight against drug trafficking and abuse.

He enjoined the public to report suspicious activities, or individuals involved in drug-related crimes, to the nearest NDLEA office or through the agency’s toll-free helpline — 0800 1020 3040.

He assured informants of confidentiality and protection.

“We will continue to collaborate with Kano State government, community leaders, relevant stakeholders and members of the public to fight against drug abuse,” the statement added.