Sokoto Court sentences three terrorists to death for arms trafficking

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By Musa Ubandawaki

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SOKOTO — A High Court in Sokoto State has sentenced three convicted terrorists, including a foreign national, to death by hanging for terrorism-related offences and illegal arms trafficking.

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The convicts, identified as Jabbi Alhaji Yalle, a citizen of Niger Republic, Yusuf Muhammad, popularly known as Sallau, and Kabiru Muhammad, were found guilty following a prosecution initiated by the Department of State Services (DSS).

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Delivering judgment in suit number SS/45C/2026, Justice Nuraddeen Muhammed Bello of High Court No. 23, Sokoto, held that the prosecution proved its case beyond reasonable doubt through evidence and witness testimonies presented before the court.

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“The evidence before this court clearly establishes the culpability of the defendants in the offences of terrorism and arms trafficking,” the judge ruled.

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“Accordingly, the court finds the accused persons guilty as charged and sentences them to death by hanging.”

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The court also ordered the forfeiture of all monetary exhibits and assets recovered from the convicts during the investigation to the Federal Government.

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Court records showed that the three men were arrested on June 13, 2025, by operatives of the DSS Counter-Terrorism Unit during intelligence-led operations targeting cross-border criminal networks operating in Nigeria’s North-West region.

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Investigations linked the convicts to the movement and supply of arms as well as support for terrorist activities that have contributed to insecurity in parts of the region.

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The judgment is being viewed as a significant milestone in efforts to combat terrorism, arms trafficking and organised cross-border crime.

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Residents who reacted to the ruling commended the DSS for what they described as a diligent investigation that led to the successful prosecution of the suspects.

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They also praised the judiciary for ensuring that the matter was concluded through due legal process, noting that the timely prosecution of terrorism-related cases is essential to strengthening public confidence in the justice system.

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Some residents called for sustained intelligence-driven operations and stronger collaboration among security agencies, border authorities and neighbouring countries to curb terrorism financing, arms smuggling and other transnational crimes.

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Analysts say the verdict sends a strong message to individuals and groups involved in terrorism and illegal arms trafficking, while reinforcing Nigeria’s commitment to tackling violent extremism and strengthening national security.

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The ruling marks another major step in the country’s ongoing campaign against terrorism and cross-border criminal activities, highlighting the role of intelligence gathering, effective prosecution and judicial accountability in safeguarding public safety.

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