Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) have arrested a suspected criminal at the Sultan Abubakar International Airport in Sokoto during the screening process for Nigerian pilgrims preparing to travel to Saudi Arabia for Hajj.
The man, identified as Sani Galadi, was taken into custody on Monday, May 19, 2025. According to sources familiar with the incident, Galadi had been under surveillance by security agents for some time before his arrest. He was reportedly apprehended while trying to board a flight with other intending pilgrims.
This development comes just a day after another suspect, Yahaya Zango, was arrested in Abuja. Zango is believed to have been involved in multiple cases of kidnapping in both the Federal Capital Territory and Kogi State. He was captured at the Abuja Hajj camp during routine checks by security personnel, including DSS operatives.
Security authorities have been increasing vigilance around pilgrimage points to prevent criminal elements from using the Hajj season as an opportunity to flee the country. Both suspects were intercepted during standard security screenings designed to identify threats among the traveling population.
Sani Galadi and Yahaya Zango are currently in DSS custody, where investigations into their alleged crimes are ongoing. Sources suggest that both men are linked to larger criminal networks operating in the northern part of the country.
Over 64,000 Nigerians are expected to participate in this year’s Hajj. As of May 12, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) completed the airlifting of pilgrims from four states, with more departures scheduled in the coming days.
