The Kano State Multi-Agency Task Force on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking has arrested an alleged infamous gang chief, referred to as “Malam Keya,” in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Announcing the arrest on Thursday, the Chairman of the Task Force, Muhuyi Magaji, mentioned the suspect has been transferred to Kano to face prosecution.
According to Mr Magaji, the suspect fled the state after being declared wished over violent gang clashes that claimed a number of lives.
“The Kano State Multi-Agency Task Force on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking has arrested Ishaq Lawan Ibrahim, popularly known as “Malam Keya”, a 27-year-old man from Yelwa in Dala Local Government Area, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. He is suspected of taking part in a number one position in the violent gang clashes which have disturbed the peace of elements of Kano State.
“Malam Keya is alleged to be a gang chief who orchestrated and sponsored the violence, fuelling and funding the hoodlums behind assaults that claimed lives and left residents of Dala Local Government dwelling in worry.
“The suspect reportedly fled Kano after the Task Force intensified security operations in communities affected by gang violence, including Jakara, Madigawa, Yalwa, Sanka, Kul Kul, Dogon Nama, Kuka Bulukiya, Dala, Shatsari and Dandalin Turawa. Acting on credible intelligence, operatives tracked him to Port Harcourt, where he was apprehended in an operation led by the Task Force’s Head of Operations, CSP Bashir Gwadabe. He has since been brought back to Kano”, Mr Magaji mentioned.
“Let me assure you that those who bankroll violence should know that no distance, and no hiding place, will protect them. This arrest is only the beginning. We will not rest until peace is fully restored.”
He mentioned the arrest, made outdoors Kano State, reveals the Task Force’s dedication to pursue wished suspects past the state’s boundaries.
“The Task Force assures the individuals of Kano State that it’ll not relent in dismantling felony gangs, their sponsors and their drug provide networks.
“The Task Force appreciates the support of the Kano State Police Command, the Rivers State Police Command and all other law enforcement agencies for their commitment to the success of the operation.”
Kano’s struggle towards illicit medication
The Kano State Government established the Multi-Agency Task Force on Drug Abuse and Illicit Substances as an inter-agency coalition comprising safety outfits, regulatory our bodies, and civil society teams.
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The task force is remitted to interdict, raid, and dismantle main distribution hubs, warehouses, and open markets used for unlawful drug gross sales throughout the 44 native authorities areas of Kano State.
It can also be mandated to implement strict anti-drug legal guidelines, together with the instant confiscation and sealing of properties or constructions utilised for storing, packaging, or promoting illicit substances.
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