The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Kano State Strategic Command, has uncovered a network of caves and underground tunnels allegedly being used as hideouts and operational bases by suspected drug traffickers in the Rimin Kebe area of the state.
The discovery was disclosed in a statement issued on Wednesday in Kano by the command’s Public Relations Officer, Sadiq Muhammad-Maigatari, who said the operation was carried out under “Operation Sharar Mafaka,” a renewed crackdown targeting illicit drug activities across the state.
According to the statement, the Commander of the NDLEA in Kano, Dahiru Yahaya-Lawal, said the breakthrough followed credible intelligence and sustained surveillance by operatives of the command.
Yahaya-Lawal said officers stormed the Rimin Kebe enclave on May 4, where they confirmed the existence of multiple caves that had been constructed and modified into living quarters and trading points by suspected drug dealers.
He revealed that some of the caves were furnished with household items such as mats, pillows, food flasks, plates, and cutlery, suggesting regular occupation and organised criminal activities.
The commander added that operatives also discovered other caves and underground tunnels still under construction, which appeared to provide hidden links between different hideouts.
He said several of the caves and tunnels had already been dismantled, while plans were underway to demolish and secure the remaining structures.
Yahaya-Lawal described the operation as part of the command’s intensified efforts to eliminate illicit drug use and trafficking in Kano State, warning those involved in the illegal trade to abandon the business.
“We will continue to pursue these unscrupulous elements wherever they hide. Our commitment is unwavering. Those who remain in the illicit trade should consider exiting now. We have come to stay until Kano is free from illicit drug use and trade,” he said.
He noted that the operation aligns with the directive of the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the NDLEA, retired Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa, to dismantle drug networks across the country.
The commander also urged members of the public to report suspicious activities to the nearest NDLEA office, stressing that timely information remains vital in the fight against substance abuse and drug trafficking.
