A residential apartment in Kano has become the centre of a major drug trafficking investigation after security operatives uncovered approximately 3.18 million capsules of suspected Pregabalin and arrested a 34-year-old man.
The discovery was made at No. 13 Apple Avenue, Normansland, Sabon Gari, in Fagge Local Government Area, during an intelligence-led operation by the Kano State Multi-Agency Task Force on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
The operation, which took place less than 24 hours after Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf inaugurated the state’s Rapid Response Squad, followed information received through the Task Force’s public reporting platforms.
The arrested suspect was identified as Gregory Ogbuji.
The Task Force alleged that Ogbuji had links with SEEMARK PHARMA LTD, registered under number 2012546. He has been charged under Section 249 of the Penal Code, while another suspect allegedly connected with the operation is still at large.
Chairman of the Task Force, Muhuyi Magaji Rimin Gado, described the seizure as a major breakthrough, saying it demonstrated the importance of intelligence gathering and prompt security intervention.
He expressed concern over the growing abuse of Pregabalin in Kano, revealing that the substance features prominently in drug-related operations across the state.
According to the Task Force’s operational experience, about eight out of every 10 drug-related operations involve suspects dependent on or abusing Pregabalin.
The agency warned that the trend posed a serious threat to public health and security, requiring sustained enforcement and stronger community involvement.
The seizure is among the first major operations by the Rapid Response Squad, which was established to tackle drug trafficking, substance abuse, thuggery and other related offences.
Rimin Gado warned those involved in the illicit drug trade to abandon the business, assuring residents that the Task Force would pursue offenders without fear or favour.
He urged members of the public to report suspicious activities through the agency’s communication channels and Command and Call Centre.
He said credible intelligence from residents remained essential to identifying criminal networks and preventing the spread of illicit drugs across Kano State.