NDLEA Arrests Suspect with 1,499 Bottles of Codeine in Kano State

Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Kano have arrested a 45-year-old man, Ashiru Bala, for allegedly possessing 1,499 bottles of cough syrup containing codeine.

The arrest was confirmed in a statement issued by the Public Relations Officer of the NDLEA Kano State Command, Sadiq Muhammad Maigatari, who disclosed that the operation was carried out following actionable intelligence.

According to the statement, the State Commandant of the agency, CN D. Y. Lawal, said the suspect was apprehended at his residence in Lambu community in Tofa Local Government Area after operatives tracked the illegal consignment.

Investigations revealed that the suspect had transported the drugs from Abuja to Kano, where they were allegedly meant to be delivered to a local drug dealer for illicit distribution. Authorities said the consignment was intended for illegal consumption, particularly ahead of the forthcoming Sallah celebrations.

During interrogation, Bala reportedly admitted that he had been involved in transporting similar consignments for about two years. He also told investigators that he previously worked in township services in Abuja for four years and received substantial payments for each delivery he made.

The NDLEA commandant said the arrest demonstrates the agency’s continued efforts to disrupt drug trafficking networks and prevent the circulation of dangerous substances in communities.

“This arrest is a demonstration of our commitment to protecting communities from the harms of illicit substances. We will sustain pressure on drug networks and ensure offenders are brought to justice,” Lawal said.

The NDLEA has intensified operations across several states in recent months as part of a broader campaign to combat the illegal distribution and abuse of controlled drugs in Nigeria. Authorities say further investigations are ongoing, and the suspect will be charged in court upon completion of the probe.