The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Kano Strategic Command has uncovered a sophisticated network of caves and underground tunnels used for illicit drug operations in the Rimin Kebe area of Kano State, marking a significant breakthrough in the fight against drug trafficking in northern Nigeria. The discovery, made during a coordinated operation codenamed “Operation Sharar Mafaka” on Monday, May 4, 2026, followed months of intelligence gathering and surveillance by NDLEA operatives. The findings were officially disclosed in a press release issued on May 6, 2026, by the command’s Public Relations Officer, Sadiq Muhammad Maigatari.
The underground hideouts, constructed and modified by suspected drug dealers, served as both living quarters and distribution points for narcotics. Inside the caves, authorities found household items such as mats, pillows, food flasks, plates, and cutlery, indicating that the occupants had been living there for an extended period. Some tunnels were still under construction, suggesting plans to connect multiple hideouts beneath the ground, further complicating detection and enforcement efforts.
Commander of the Kano Strategic Command, Dahiru Yahaya Lawal, confirmed that several of the caves and tunnels have already been dismantled. He stated that the remaining structures are being targeted for demolition and permanent securing to prevent future use. “We will continue to pursue these unscrupulous elements wherever they hide,” Lawal emphasized. “Our commitment is unwavering. Those involved in illicit drug trade should consider exiting now, as we are determined to rid Kano of this menace.”
The operation aligns with national directives from NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd), who has called for intensified efforts to dismantle drug networks across Nigeria. Lawal stressed that the success of such operations relies heavily on community cooperation and public vigilance. The NDLEA Kano command urged residents to report any suspicious activities to the nearest NDLEA office, noting that timely information is crucial in curbing the spread of substance abuse and related crimes.
This discovery underscores the growing complexity of drug trafficking operations in Nigeria, where criminals increasingly resort to hidden, underground infrastructure to evade law enforcement. The NDLEA’s proactive approach in Kano reflects a broader strategy to strengthen security and public safety in high-risk areas. As the agency continues to expand its operations, the dismantling of these networks sends a clear message to drug traffickers that no hiding place is safe. The ongoing efforts are expected to contribute significantly to reducing drug-related crimes and improving public health outcomes in Kano and beyond.
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