A Katsina State High Court has sentenced a female arms courier, Hauwa’u Mukhtar, to death by hanging after finding her guilty of terrorism-related offences.
The conviction followed a successful prosecution on charges of conspiracy to commit terrorism as well as aiding and abetting terrorist activities.
According to court proceedings, Mukhtar was arrested by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) on September 16, 2023, at Jibia Motor Park in Katsina State while allegedly transporting 438 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition intended for a notorious bandit leader identified as Ado, who operates within the Dunburum Forest area of Zamfara State.
She was subsequently arraigned on a two-count charge before the court, where the prosecution presented witnesses, documentary evidence, and exhibits linking her to the offences.
After reviewing the evidence and hearing arguments from both the prosecution and defence, the presiding judge, Justice A. B. Bawale, ruled that the prosecution had proved its case beyond reasonable doubt.
The court found Mukhtar guilty on both counts and sentenced her to death by hanging in accordance with the provisions of the Katsina State Penal Code Law, 2021.
The judgment has been described as a significant milestone in the fight against terrorism and banditry in Nigeria’s North-West region, highlighting ongoing efforts by security agencies to dismantle criminal networks and prosecute those who provide logistical support to terrorist and bandit groups.
Security experts say the ruling sends a strong message that individuals who facilitate terrorism through the supply of weapons and ammunition will face the full weight of the law.
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