Sokoto Court sentences three terrorists to death for arms trafficking

By Musa Ubandawaki

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.

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).

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.

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

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

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

Court records show that the three men were arrested on 13 June 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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.