In a decisive push against the rising tide of thuggery and drug-related crime, Kano State Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, has called on the state government to establish special courts for the swift prosecution of arrested thugs. The proposal aims to address the bottlenecks in the judicial process that allow suspected criminals to languish in detention without trial.
The call came during a high-level security stakeholders meeting held at the Sani Abacha Indoor Stadium in Kano. The gathering brought together traditional rulers, security agencies, and members of the Kano State Taskforce on Peace Restoration and Youth Rehabilitation.
CP Bakori disclosed that over the past week alone, police operatives have arrested more than 60 suspected thugs and recovered 18 locally manufactured AK-47 rifles. Since assuming office, his command has also seized tramadol valued at over N100 million from illicit drug dealers, and made a total of 150 arrests linked to violent crimes, weapon possession, and drug trafficking.
“Thuggery and drug abuse are symptoms of deeper socio-economic challenges,” Bakori said, noting that lack of education, limited opportunities, and insufficient youth support systems contribute significantly to the unrest. He advocated for a multifaceted approach including investments in vocational training, educational access, and youth-focused recreational programs to divert young people from criminal activity.
The Police Commissioner also emphasized the importance of traditional institutions in strengthening community policing. He urged local rulers to work hand-in-hand with Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) to proactively identify and neutralize potential security threats. “With the people’s support, there will be no more Daba in Kano,” he affirmed, using the local term for street thuggery.
Representing Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, Kano State Deputy Governor Abdussalam Gwarzo reiterated the administration’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding peace and security across the state. He applauded the efforts of security agencies and highlighted the critical role of collective action in combating crime.
“Security is a shared responsibility,” Gwarzo said. “Government alone cannot achieve peace. It requires consistent collaboration among security personnel, traditional leaders, and every citizen.”
The meeting closed with a joint pledge to enhance intelligence sharing, community engagement, and swift judicial action in the ongoing quest to restore peace and order in Kano State.
