By AHMED ABBA

No fewer than 60 suspects have been arrested in a joint operation clampdown on drug dealers and abusers in Damaturu, Yobe.

The State Government Focal Person on Drug Abuse Control, Mr Saidu Jakusko, made this known on Thursday while briefing newsmen in Damaturu.

Jakusko said the joint operation which involved members of vigilance group and personnel of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), led to the arrest of 30 men and 30 women.

He explained that the clampdown became necessary following the alarming rate of drug abuse, especially among the youth population in the state.

“The first phase of the operation targeted some flashpoints within the state capital and will continue until the menace is brought under control,” he said.

Jakusko noted that most of the suspects were under the influence of hard substances at the point of arrest, and among them were three notorious drug dealers who had been on the watchlist of security operatives.

He said the arrested individuals were being screened, and those identified as non-indigenes would be returned to their respective states.

“For those who are indigenes, some will be rehabilitated, counselled, empowered, and arraigned in court, depending on the degree of their involvement,” he said.

He added that special consideration would be given to the female suspects.

Jakusko expressed appreciation to Gov. Mai Mala Buni for entrusting him with the responsibility and thanked the security agencies for their cooperation and support during the operation.

He called for sustained collaboration to end the scourge of drug abuse in the state.

Also speaking, Sheikh Abubakar Muhammad, who was invited to counsel the suspects in line with Islamic teachings, admonished them to fear God and lead responsible lives.

“The secret to a peaceful life and sound mind lies in the fear of Allah,” he said.

Sheikh Muhammad lamented that the suspects were mostly young people who should be productive members of society.

He urged parents and guardians to take active roles in the moral upbringing of their children.

In a tearful confession, one of the suspects, 21-year old and mother of two simply identified as Maryam, said she was forced into drugs and prostitution after losing her husband to Boko Haram insurgents and was denied access to his property by his relatives.

“If I can get shelter, some capital to start a small business, and care for my children, I will never return to this life,” she said.

Another suspect, Modu, a carpenter, admitted to smoking cigarettes and Indian hemp.

He expressed regret and pledged to turn a new leaf.

“I advise fellow youths to avoid drugs and pray that Almighty Allah will help me change,” he said. (NAN)