Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) on Monday arrested a suspected kidnap kingpin, Sani Galadi, at the Sultan Abubakar International Airport in Sokoto.
Galadi was apprehended around 11:15 a.m. during a screening exercise for intending pilgrims at the airport’s Hajj terminal. Intelligence officers had reportedly been monitoring his movements prior to the arrest.
The arrest occurred less than 24 hours after another wanted kidnap suspect was detained at the Hajj camp in Abuja while preparing to travel to Saudi Arabia. That individual was wanted in connection with multiple kidnappings in Kogi State and the Federal Capital Territory.
A senior security official confirmed Galadi’s arrest, describing it as part of a broader effort to dismantle criminal networks nationwide. “Yes, Galadi was arrested during final screening before his departure to Saudi Arabia,” the official stated.
When asked how Galadi managed to obtain travel documents despite being under surveillance, the source replied, “That’s a question for the relevant agencies.”
The official added that Galadi is currently in custody and cooperating with investigators. “He will have his day in court once the investigation is concluded,” the official said.
