In Niger, law enforcement authorities have arrested hundreds of individuals in a large-scale anti-drug operation carried out overnight from Saturday to Sunday across several neighborhoods of Niamey, the capital.

The operation, codenamed “Garkoua” — meaning “Shield” — was led by the Central Office for the Suppression of Illicit Drug Trafficking, with dozens of officers mobilized to raid drug-dealing and consumption sites.

Officials say the operation aims to curb the growing threat of narcotics in the city and restore public safety.

Authorities have pledged to intensify similar operations nationwide as part of efforts to dismantle trafficking networks and reduce drug-related crimes.