The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Zamfara State has arrested a 58-year-old man, Emmanuel Okonkwo, accused of selling illegal drugs for over two decades, as part of intensified efforts to combat drug trafficking and protect public infrastructure. The arrest took place on September 10, 2026, at around 11:30 pm in Birnin Magaji Local Government Area. Okonkwo, who operated a chemist shop in the area, confessed to working with two alleged accomplices—identified only as Yellow and Sadiq—who remain at large. He admitted to distributing hard drugs including cannabis, Exol 5, Tramadol, and Diazepam D10 tablets across the state.
In a separate but related operation, the NSCDC also apprehended nine other suspects linked to vandalism and theft of government property. These arrests were made following intelligence gathered by the corps’ intelligence unit. The suspects were paraded on Monday at the NSCDC headquarters in Gusau, where they were presented to the media. According to the command, one of the suspects, Alhaji Haruna Amadu, 55, from Tsageru village in Tsafe Local Government Area, was arrested on September 8, 2026, at approximately 3 pm. Amadu reportedly named eight others involved in the destruction and theft of government infrastructure.
The state commandant, Sani Mustapha, confirmed through the Public Relations Officer, ASCI Umar Mohammed, that these operations are part of the NSCDC’s statutory duty to curb criminal activities and safeguard public assets. “In accordance with the statutory mandate of the Corps, the Zamfara state command, under the supervision and adept headship of Commandant Sani Mustapha, is steadfast and committed to reducing elements of criminality,” Mohammed stated. The suspects confessed to conspiring to remove roofing materials from government buildings and attempting to bribe local village heads to cover their tracks.
All nine suspects linked to the vandalism cases have been taken into custody and are currently being held at the NSCDC headquarters. Investigations into both cases are ongoing, with authorities working to trace the remaining fugitives, particularly Yellow and Sadiq, who are believed to be key players in the drug distribution network. The NSCDC emphasized its commitment to ensuring justice and maintaining peace in Zamfara State.
This crackdown highlights the increasing role of security agencies in addressing both drug-related crimes and acts of sabotage against public infrastructure. As law enforcement continues to strengthen its operations, residents are encouraged to report suspicious activities to aid in further dismantling criminal networks. The arrests signal a determined effort to restore order and protect communities across Zamfara.
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