The Kano State Police Command has intensified its fight against crime with the arrest of 345 suspected thugs, drug dealers, and other criminal elements during a large-scale security operation conducted across the state.
Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, disclosed the development during a press briefing at the Bompai Police Headquarters in Kano, describing the operation as one of the most extensive crackdowns on criminal activities in recent months.
According to the police chief, the operation was carried out between June 5 and June 7 across all 44 local government areas of the state. The exercise was intelligence-driven and focused on identified criminal hideouts, black spots, drug distribution centres, and locations known for violent gang activities.
Bakori revealed that 187 suspects were arrested during the three-day clearance operation, while the remaining suspects were apprehended through previous raids, follow-up investigations, and ongoing security operations. He stated that all those in custody are currently undergoing interrogation and profiling, while cases supported by evidence will be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The operation also led to the recovery of 270 dangerous weapons, including knives, cutlasses, machetes, clubs, and other items allegedly used in criminal activities. In addition, security operatives confiscated significant quantities of illicit drugs and controlled substances, including Cannabis Sativa, Exol tablets, and the dangerous locally mixed substance popularly known as “Suck and Die,” which authorities say has contributed to rising cases of drug abuse and youth-related violence.
Police authorities noted that the success of the operation was largely driven by the activities of Operation Kukan Kura and the recently established Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), both of which were created to strengthen intelligence gathering, improve rapid response capabilities, and increase police visibility in crime-prone communities.
The Commissioner emphasized that the command remains determined to dismantle criminal networks and prevent the spread of illicit drugs, which security experts have identified as a major factor fueling thuggery, street violence, armed robbery, and other crimes in urban centres.
He warned that the police would continue to sustain pressure on criminal groups and maintain regular raids on identified flashpoints across the state.
“No form of criminality will be tolerated in Kano State. Those found violating the law will face due process, and we will continue to pursue every individual or group threatening the peace and security of our communities,” Bakori stated.
The police boss also commended the Kano State Government for its support in providing resources and logistical assistance for security operations. He called on residents to strengthen cooperation with law enforcement agencies by providing credible and timely information that could assist in preventing crime and tracking suspects.
Security analysts say the operation reflects a broader effort by authorities to address concerns over youth gang activities, drug abuse, and violent crime in Kano, one of Nigeria’s most populous states. They argue that while enforcement actions remain important, long-term solutions should also include youth empowerment programmes, drug rehabilitation initiatives, education, and community-based interventions aimed at addressing the root causes of criminal behaviour.
The Kano State Police Command has assured residents that surveillance and intelligence-led operations will continue across the state, with the goal of ensuring safer communities, protecting lives and property, and creating an environment where criminal activities can no longer thrive.
