Gov Yusuf hails DSS over arrest of suspected arms courier in Kano

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has commended the Department of State Services (DSS) for the arrest of a suspected arms courier in Kano State, describing the operation as a significant breakthrough in efforts to combat banditry, terrorism and other violent crimes in northern Nigeria.

According to a statement issued on Friday by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, the suspect, identified as 30-year-old Muhammad Abubakar, was apprehended in Gezawa Local Government Area while allegedly transporting a cache of weapons believed to be destined for criminal elements in Katsina State.

The DSS disclosed that the recovered items included four rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) tubes, three AK-47 rifles and two empty magazines. The weapons were reportedly being transported to Funtua in Katsina State.

Preliminary investigations indicated that the suspect allegedly collected the arms from an individual identified as Bello in the Maigatari border area of Jigawa State and was expected to receive N450,000 upon successful delivery.

Governor Yusuf praised the professionalism, vigilance and intelligence-driven approach of DSS operatives, noting that the timely interception of the weapons prevented them from falling into the hands of bandits and other criminal groups.

“This operation underscores the critical role of intelligence gathering and effective collaboration among security agencies in addressing emerging security threats,” the governor said.

He reaffirmed the Kano State government’s commitment to supporting security agencies through sustained cooperation, logistical assistance and policies aimed at strengthening public safety across the state.

The governor also urged residents to remain vigilant and continue providing credible information to security agencies to support ongoing efforts to curb criminal activities and maintain peace.

Yusuf expressed confidence that ongoing investigations would lead to the arrest and prosecution of other individuals linked to the suspected arms trafficking network.