Kano task force catches 3.18 million suspected pregabalin capsules

The Kano State Multi-Agency Task Force on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking has seized about 3,180,000 capsules believed to be Pregabalin in the Sabon Gari area of Fagge Local Government Area in Kano State.

This information comes from a statement by Lamara Garba, the Secretary of the agency’s Media and Publicity Committee. A copy of the statement was shared with PUNCH Online on Saturday.

“Just 24 hours after Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, launched the Rapid Response Squad, the Kano State Multi-Agency Task Force on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking has seized around 3,180,000 capsules thought to be Pregabalin in the Sabon Gari area of Kano State,” it said.

The statement noted that the seizure happened after the Task Force received reliable information through one of its reporting platforms linked to the Command and Call Centre. This was just hours after the governor officially launched the Rapid Response Squad.

“Acting quickly on this information, Squad operatives identified and searched a residential apartment at No. 13 Apple Avenue, Normansland, Sabon Gari, in Fagge Local Government Area, which was suspected to be used for illegal activities,” it said.

During the operation, the operatives found about 3,180,000 capsules believed to be Pregabalin and arrested a 34-year-old man named Gregory Ogbuji. The suspect is believed to be linked to SEEMARK PHARMA LTD, registered under number 2012546. He has been charged under Section 249 of the Penal Code. Another suspect connected to the operation is currently missing.

Muhuyi Rimin Gado, the Chairman of the Task Force, called the seizure a big win for the Rapid Response Squad. He emphasized the need for intelligence-led enforcement and good communication between the public and law enforcement agencies.

“Pregabalin has become one of the most commonly abused drugs in Kano State. Our experience shows that around eight out of every ten drug-related operations involve suspects who are dependent on or abusing Pregabalin,” the statement added.

The chairman warned people involved in the illegal drug trade to stop, assuring the public that the Task Force will keep taking strong action against offenders. He expressed gratitude to the community for their help and ongoing support.

He encouraged residents to use the Task Force’s reporting platforms and call centre to share credible information about suspected drug abuse, trafficking, thuggery, and other crimes. He said that support from residents is key to improving public safety and advancing the state government’s “Kano First” agenda.