In a determined push to reclaim the streets of Maiduguri from rising crime and drug abuse, Borno police have arrested 210 suspects in a sweeping week-long operation.
The arrests, made between June 11 and 18, follow a coordinated clampdown on known hotspots for handset theft, youth violence, gang activity, and drug trafficking. Commissioner of Police Naziru AbdulMajid disclosed on Friday that large quantities of illicit drugs and weapons were seized during the raids.
According to him, 86 of those arrested have already been convicted in court, while 124 are still undergoing investigation. The commissioner emphasized that the operation is part of a broader strategy to restore law and order and deter criminal networks exploiting the city’s youth.
Residents say the increased police visibility has brought a sense of relief to areas long troubled by street gangs and drug-related violence.
Recovered items included 58 tramadol sachets, 175 exzol tablets, 130 D5 tablets, and 395 wraps plus 1kg of dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp.
Other seized items were 28 ermo tablets, 10 bottles of drug syrup, 19 shisha pots and pipes, nine knives, and two customised antelope horns.
AbdulMajid credited the success to the Rapid Response Squad Social Vices Unit, a joint force of police and other security agencies.
He praised the dedication and bravery of officers and thanked the Borno government for revitalising and equipping the RRS unit.
He also appreciated the state’s Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Hauwa Abubakar, for enabling swift prosecution of the suspects.
The CP urged residents to support security agencies by reporting suspicious behaviour and sharing reliable intelligence to aid investigations.
“Let me be clear, the Police Command in Borno under my watch will not tolerate criminal elements or their unlawful activities,” he said.
He warned those engaging in illicit acts to desist immediately or prepare to face the full consequences of the law.
