Terrorism: Police secure conviction of two persons in Katsina

The Nigeria Police Force has secured the conviction of two persons prosecuted for terrorism-related offences after their arrest in a major arms trafficking operation in Katsina State.

A statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, Anietie Iniedu, on Friday reaffirmed the Force’s commitment to ensuring that criminal investigations culminate in successful prosecution and justice.

Recall that operatives of the Katsina State Police Command intercepted the suspects, Abdussalam Muhammad and Aminu Mamman, along the Ingawa–Karkarku Road, Katsina State, transporting a cache of prohibited firearms and ammunition intended for criminal elements.

According to the statement, items recovered during the operation were one PKT machine gun, 230 rounds of PKT ammunition, 1,663 rounds of 7.62mm × 39mm AK-47 ammunition, and the vehicle used in conveying the exhibits.

The statement added that during comprehensive investigations, the suspects were charged before the Federal High Court, Katsina Judicial Division, in Charge No. FHC/KT/84C/2025 on a five-count charge bordering on criminal conspiracy, unlawful possession and transportation of prohibited firearms and ammunition rendering support to terrorists.

“After a full trial during which the prosecution presented witnesses and tendered documentary and material exhibits, both suspects were found guilty on all counts.

“The Court consequently sentenced each convict to five years’ imprisonment on Count One and twenty years’ imprisonment on each of Counts Two to Five,” the statement said.

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, commendsled the professionalism of the investigators and prosecution team whose diligent efforts culminated in the successful conviction.

Disu also reiterated the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to combating terrorism, disrupting the illicit proliferation of arms, and ensuring that all persons involved in acts threatening Nigeria’s national security are brought to justice.