In a significant operation, security operatives from the Department of State Services (DSS) have detained an alleged notorious bandit and kidnapper during the screening of intending Muslim pilgrims in Sokoto.
The individual, identified as Sani Galadi, was arrested on Monday at Sultan Abubakar International Airport after being tracked by the DSS. This incident follows the arrest of another suspect, Yahaya Zango, who was captured at the hajj camp in Abuja just 24 hours earlier. Zango is reportedly connected to multiple kidnapping cases in Abuja and Kogi.
A source within the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) revealed that Zango’s arrest occurred during the pilgrim screening on Sunday. Recently, NAHCON completed the airlift of intending pilgrims from four states to Saudi Arabia, anticipating that 64,188 Nigerians will embark on this year’s pilgrimage.
The situation in northern Nigeria has seen a rise in violent attacks, affecting military bases as well. On Friday, Chief of Defence Staff Christopher Musa disclosed that the military has acquired new equipment aimed at enhancing security measures in response to the escalating insurgent threats.
