DSS Nabs Another Suspected Kidnap Kingpin at Airport En Route to Hajj

Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) on Monday arrested another suspected kidnap kingpin, Sani Galadi, at the Sultan Abubakar International Airport in Sokoto as he prepared to depart for the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage.

Galadi was apprehended at about 11:15 a.m. during a routine screening at the Hajj terminal. According to security sources, he had been under surveillance by DSS operatives who moved in once he was positively identified among the intending pilgrims.

This arrest comes less than 24 hours after another wanted kidnapping suspect was picked up at the Hajj camp in Abuja while attempting to travel to Saudi Arabia. That suspect had been declared wanted for alleged involvement in abductions in Kogi and the Federal Capital Territory.

A senior security source, speaking on the condition of anonymity, confirmed the Sokoto arrest and noted it was part of broader covert operations aimed at dismantling kidnapping syndicates across the country. “Yes, one Galadi was arrested today at the terminal while undergoing final screening before departure for Saudi Arabia,” the source said.

When asked how Galadi was able to obtain travel documents, the source declined to comment in detail, suggesting that the relevant agencies would need to answer those questions. “What I know is that Galadi is in custody and cooperating with investigators. He will be charged in court once investigations are complete,” the official added.

Efforts to reach DSS officials for an official statement were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report.