Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) on Monday successfully intercepted and arrested a notorious suspected kidnap kingpin, Sani Galadi, at Sultan Abubakar International Airport in Sokoto. The arrest occurred during a routine screening exercise for pilgrims preparing to embark on the annual Hajj pilgrimage.
According to sources, intelligence officers had been monitoring Galadi’s movements for some time due to his alleged involvement in multiple kidnapping cases across the region. The DSS team strategically trailed him to the airport, where he was attempting to board a flight to Saudi Arabia for the Hajj.
The arrest took place at approximately 11:15 a.m. at the Hajj terminal, a critical checkpoint where pilgrims undergo thorough security checks before departure. The DSS operatives acted swiftly to prevent Galadi from escaping justice under the guise of religious travel.
Sani Galadi is believed to be a key figure in a kidnapping syndicate responsible for several high-profile abductions, extortion, and ransom demands in the northwest region of Nigeria. His capture is expected to provide significant leads that could help dismantle the broader criminal network.
Authorities have commended the DSS for their vigilance and intelligence-driven operations, which continue to play a vital role in enhancing national security and protecting citizens from the menace of kidnapping and other violent crimes.
The DSS has confirmed that Galadi is currently in custody and will be subjected to further interrogation and investigation. Officials have assured the public that efforts to combat kidnapping and related crimes will be intensified to ensure the safety and security of all Nigerians.
This arrest marks another significant milestone in the ongoing fight against criminal activities, especially as the country prepares for the Hajj season, a period often exploited by criminals to evade law enforcement. The DSS’s proactive approach underscores its commitment to safeguarding the nation’s borders and ensuring that only legitimate pilgrims undertake the sacred journey.
