Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) have arrested a suspected kidnap kingpin, Sani Galadi, at the Sultan Abubakar International Airport in Sokoto while he was preparing to embark on the Hajj pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia.
Galadi was reportedly apprehended around 11:15 a.m. during a routine screening exercise for intending pilgrims. Sources said he had been under surveillance before being picked up by intelligence operatives at the airport's Hajj terminal.
His arrest comes less than 24 hours after another suspected kidnap kingpin, declared wanted by security agencies, was arrested at the Hajj camp in Abuja. That suspect was linked to several high-profile abductions in Kogi and Abuja.
A top security source who confirmed Galadi’s arrest said the operation was part of ongoing covert efforts to dismantle criminal networks and reduce the spate of violent crimes across the country.
“Yes, one Galadi was arrested today at the terminal while undergoing final screening before departure for Saudi Arabia,” the source disclosed.
Responding to concerns about how the suspect obtained travel documents despite being under investigation, the official remarked, “You can find out that from those agencies. What I know is that Galadi is now in custody and is answering necessary questions. He will face prosecution once the investigation is concluded.”
As of Monday evening, attempts to reach DSS officials through their official contact lines were unsuccessful.
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