…Four Others Allegedly Set to Travel to Saudi Arabia
Security operatives have arrested a wanted bandit, Yahaya Zango, at the Hajj Camp in Abuja while he was attempting to travel to Saudi Arabia under the guise of a pilgrim.
Zango, who has been on the watchlist of law enforcement agencies for alleged involvement in kidnapping and banditry across northern Nigeria, was apprehended during routine screening of intending pilgrims for the 2025 Hajj.
A credible security source disclosed to Zagazola Makama, Lake Chad security analyst, that the arrest was made following intelligence reports which prompted enhanced screening measures and close monitoring within the camp.
“Upon close monitoring and verification, the suspect’s identity was uncovered, and he was immediately taken into custody without incident,” the source confirmed.
Zango is currently being interrogated, while further investigations are underway to trace his associates and broader criminal network.
Meanwhile, security sources have raised concerns that at least four other individuals with alleged ties to banditry may also be among the registered pilgrims travelling through the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.
Those reportedly on the list include Madele, said to be the father of a notorious bandit leader, Ado Aliero; Bello Bazamfare; and a woman alleged to be the mother of another infamous bandit commander, Gwaska Dankarami. One of the individuals is believed to be a sibling of Ado Aliero.
This is not the first time such concerns have surfaced. In 2024, 14 suspected bandits were reportedly sponsored to perform the Hajj. Upon their return, three were arrested, although one was later released under unclear circumstances.
In response, security agencies are said to have intensified intelligence gathering and screening protocols to ensure that the annual pilgrimage is not exploited by individuals linked to criminal activities.
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