Nigeria’s Anti-Narcotics Agency Uncovers Underground Drug Network Hidden In Kano Caves, Tunnels, Arrests 19

Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency have uncovered and dismantled a network of caves and tunnels allegedly used by criminal elements for illicit drug use, trade, and storage in the Rimin Kebe area of Kano State, in what officials described as a significant breakthrough in the ongoing anti-narcotics campaign. According to the Agency’s Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, who shared details via X (formerly Twitter) on Friday, the operation led to the arrest of 19 suspects and the recovery of various quantities of illicit substances from the underground hideouts. Babafemi noted that the discovery revealed a concealed criminal infrastructure operating beneath the surface, describing the environment as highly unusual and alarming. “These videos and pictures capture the moment Nigerian Drug Law Enforcement Agency officers uncovered and dismantled a network of caves and tunnels used by criminal elements for illicit drug use, trade and storage at Rimin Kebe area of Kano where 19 suspects were arrested and various quantities of illicit substances recovered,” he said. “It’s indeed a different life underneath the earth! Congratulations to the Kano Strategic Command of the Agency and all the gallant officers involved in the “Operation Sharar Mafaka." The statement highlights the scale and sophistication of the concealed structures allegedly used to facilitate drug-related activities, which officers reportedly discovered during a coordinated enforcement operation. Officials said the tunnels and caves had been converted into hidden spaces where suspects allegedly engaged in drug consumption, storage, and distribution away from public view. The location, situated within the Rimin Kebe area, is now under further investigation as authorities seek to determine the full extent of the network and possible collaborators. The operation, code-named “Operation Sharar Mafaka,” was executed by officers of the Kano Strategic Command of the NDLEA, who reportedly acted on intelligence-led surveillance before moving in to dismantle the underground structures. The agency praised the officers involved, describing their actions as part of ongoing efforts to disrupt drug trafficking networks and eliminate hidden drug hubs across the country. While details on the identities of the 19 suspects have not been fully disclosed, authorities confirmed that they are currently in custody and undergoing further interrogation. The recovered substances have also been taken for forensic analysis. https://x.com/FemiBabafemi/status/2055174597880741936?s=20