SECURITY

DSS Arrests Kidnap Kingpins at Hajj Camps in Abuja and Sokoto

By DAYO ADESULU

In a strategic operation that underscores the expanding intelligence capabilities of Nigeria’s security agencies, DSS arrests kidnap kingpins at Hajj camps in Abuja and Sokoto.

The covert arrests were made on Sunday, just as the suspects were preparing to join thousands of Muslim faithful traveling to Saudi Arabia for the annual Hajj pilgrimage. Security sources revealed that both individuals had been under surveillance for over a year and were captured during routine screening processes at the camps.

DSS Arrests Kidnap Kingpins in Coordinated Operation

Yahaya Yakubu, believed to be the mastermind behind a series of high-profile kidnappings in and around the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), was arrested at the Abuja Hajj camp. The suspect, a resident of Paikon-Kore village in Gwagwalada Area Council, was apprehended while presenting his travel documents alongside other intending pilgrims.

Almost simultaneously, Sani Aliyu Galadi, also known by the alias “Mai Boxer”, was arrested at the Sokoto Hajj camp, nearly 750 kilometres away. DSS arrests kidnap kingpins, Galadi is reportedly responsible for numerous bandit attacks across the Sokoto–Zamfara axis, making him a prime target on the DSS watchlist.

“Yakubu presented his passport along with other Muslim travellers from Abuja when DSS operatives apprehended him and whisked him away,” a security source revealed.

Galadi Flown to DSS Headquarters in Abuja

The DSS arrests kidnap kingpins, Galadi and was immediately flown from Sokoto to Abuja for intensive interrogation and further investigation. According to sources within the DSS, Galadi is suspected of coordinating cross-border operations involving armed bandits and may have provided logistical support for multiple deadly attacks in North-West Nigeria.

Intending Pilgrims Unaware of High-Profile Arrests

The operation, though executed discreetly, created ripples among officials at the Hajj camps. An official of the Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board in Abuja, who requested anonymity, confirmed Yakubu’s arrest, noting that the DSS arrests kidnap kingpins professionally to avoid causing panic among other intending pilgrims.

“The officers knew who they were looking for. The suspect didn’t resist arrest and was taken away quietly,” the official said.

Long-Term Surveillance Leads to Breakthrough

Security analysts have applauded the DSS arrests kidnap kingpins for its precision and patience, noting that these arrests are the product of months of intelligence gathering and strategic surveillance. Both suspects had reportedly used religious events and community engagements as cover to evade law enforcement in the past.

“This is a classic example of how intelligence-led operations can yield tangible results in combating organized crime,” said a security analyst based in Abuja.

DSS Steps Up Efforts Against Kidnapping and Banditry

The arrests mark a significant milestone in Nigeria’s broader campaign to tackle the escalating threat of kidnapping-for-ransom and rural banditry, particularly in the FCT, Sokoto, and Zamfara regions.

The DSS has recently increased its footprint in rural areas, collaborating closely with local informants and leveraging biometric identification tools to monitor and intercept suspects attempting to flee the country under the guise of religious or humanitarian missions.

Ongoing Investigations and Possible Prosecutions

As of press time, the DSS is yet to issue an official statement regarding the DSS arrests kidnap kingpins. However, sources confirmed that both Yakubu and Galadi are undergoing interrogation and may soon be arraigned in court following the conclusion of investigations.

If found guilty, the suspects could face charges ranging from kidnapping, terrorism-related offenses, and conspiracy, under Nigeria’s anti-terrorism and criminal laws.

Public Reactions: Relief and Renewed Confidence

News of the arrests has sparked cautious optimism among residents in affected areas. Communities in Gwagwalada and Zamfara have expressed relief that two of the most feared criminal figures may finally face justice.

“We hope this is just the beginning. These arrests send a message that no one is above the law,” said a resident of Gwagwalada who spoke anonymously.

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