Federal High Court sentences woman to 10 years for supplying arms to bandits

Raya Haruna was convicted by a Federal High Court in Kano and sentenced to ten years in prison for transporting arms and ammunition to bandits operating in parts of Northern Nigeria.

Justice Simon Amobeda, the presiding judge, delivered the judgment after finding Haruna guilty on three counts related to the unlawful transportation of firearms and the provision of logistical support to criminal elements.

The charges were brought under the Firearms Act and the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, which make it illegal to possess, move or supply firearms and to provide material support or assistance to terrorist groups and associated criminal networks.

Haruna was arrested by security operatives in 2024 during an operation aimed at disrupting the flow of weapons to bandits terrorising communities in Kano State and neighbouring areas.

Since her arrest, she remained in custody while awaiting trial before the Federal High Court on allegations of transporting arms and ammunition for criminal groups.

In his judgment, Justice Amobeda noted that although Haruna did not directly participate in attacks or fire weapons during violent operations, her role as an arms courier significantly aided and sustained the activities of bandits and terrorists.

The judge explained that the transportation of weapons and ammunition is a critical link in the chain of terrorist operations, enabling criminal groups to carry out attacks that result in deaths, injuries and widespread destruction.

Justice Amobeda further observed that under the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, providing logistics, transportation or any form of material support that facilitates terrorist activities is a serious offence punishable by law.

He stressed that terrorism remains a grave threat to national security, destroying lives and property while undermining peace and development in affected communities.

The court sentenced Haruna to ten years’ imprisonment, with no option of a fine on any of the three counts. The sentences run concurrently from the date of her arrest and detention in 2024.

Justice Amobeda ordered that the recovered arms and ammunition be handed over to the Department of State Services (DSS) and that Haruna be enrolled in rehabilitation and reformation programmes during her incarceration.

He added that the sentence should serve as a warning to transporters, logistics operators and couriers to conduct their businesses lawfully and avoid involvement in activities that support terrorism and banditry.