No fewer than 150 suspects have been arrested by the Kano State Police Command for alleged thuggery, illicit drug and unlawful possession of firearms.
Police operatives also recovered 18 locally-made AK-47 rifles were since the assumption into office of the new Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Bakori.
CP Bakori who disclosed this also called on the Kano State government to establish special courts to try arrested thugs rather than their prolonged custody in police cell while awaiting trial.
The CP made the call at a meeting with traditional rulers, security agencies and the Kano State Taskforce on Peace Restoration and Youth Rehabilitation on Sunday.
Bakori called on the state government to ensure that such youths, after being released from correctional centres are trained and equipped with skills that will make them useful to themselves and the society.
He added that tramadol, an illicit drug worth over N100 million was recovered from drug dealers since he resumed office as CP in the state.
“We developed a comprehensive action plan to tackle these issues head-on. I’m delighted to report that our efforts are yielding significant results. We’ve arrested 150 individuals involved in thuggery and other violent crimes, recovered dangerous weapons, illicit drugs, and stolen properties.
“While our achievements are commendable, we recognise that they are only the beginning. The roots of thuggery and drug abuse run deep in society, often stemming from socio-economic factors, lack of opportunities, and inadequate support systems. We must work together to provide alternatives for our youth.
“This means investing in education, vocational training, and recreational programmes that engage our young people and offer them pathways to success. By equipping them with the skills and experiences they need, we ensure they are prepared for the workforce and empowered to pursue their passions and dreams,” the CP said.
He added that the interaction was in line with the directives of the Inspector-General of Police that the traditional rulers, particularly ward heads (Masu Unguwanni), play a vital role in community policing.
“They’re close to the public and can provide valuable insights into local security dynamics. Their contributions are crucial to our efforts to restore peace and stability in Kano State.
“I therefore urged our traditional Rulers here to give their total commitment in our quest to end thuggery-related crimes in Kano State.
“You have to critically study your area, identify security threats and liaise with Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) in your areas to address any likely emerging challenges,” he charged the royal fathers.
In the same vein, CP Bakori charged DPOs to work with relevant stakeholders to address emerging crimes. “When we work together with people’s support and cooperation, there will be ‘no more ‘Daba’ in Kano.”
Kano State Deputy Governor, Abdussalam Gwarzo, who also spoke to the gathering reiterated the need for synergy among citizens in fighting insecurity.
The deputy governor who represented Governor Abba Yusuf, reassured participants of the commitment of the state government in preserving the peace being enjoyed in the state.
He commended the unwavering dedication of the Kano State Taskforce Committee comprising all security agencies and other government functionaries for working tirelessly, often at great personal risk, to safeguard lives and property.
“Your bravery and commitment do not go unnoticed, and I extend our gratitude to each and every one of you.”
He, however, reminded that security cannot be achieved in isolation, adding, “Strengthening the fabric of security in Kano State demands robust collaboration among various stakeholders including security agencies, traditional institutions, religious leaders, community representatives, and, most importantly, the citizens themselves. We are all, in one way or another, key players in the pursuit of a peaceful society.”
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