The Sokoto State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has successfully apprehended a drug dealer believed to have orchestrated the killing of one of its operatives in January. The arrest, which took place on Thursday in Bagarawa village, resulted from a joint operation involving various security agencies.
Commander Iro Mohammed briefed the press on Friday, providing details on how the operative lost their life during a raid on the suspect’s hideout. Describing the incident, he stated, “During the village raid, our team managed to arrest the suspect. However, as they were leaving, the suspect raised an alarm, leading to our officers being surrounded by villagers. Tragically, one of our officers was maimed and killed with machetes, while the suspect managed to escape.”
Highlighting a pressing issue, Mohammed expressed concerns about certain communities shielding drug dealers due to familial ties. He emphasised, “Communities are aware of the illicit activities, yet some choose to protect these individuals, compromising the safety of law enforcement officers.”
The commander further disclosed the arrest of 59 additional suspects, including four women. These individuals were apprehended at various drug joints across the state. Mohammed explained that the arrests were in response to the governor’s directive for security agencies to collectively raid suspected criminal hideouts.
“Some of the suspects are known dealers, while others are drug users. Following investigations, we will prosecute the dealers, while the users will undergo rehabilitation,” Mohammed affirmed, underscoring the agency’s commitment to combating drug-related activities in Sokoto State.