Our reporter
Security forces have arrested a notorious wanted bandit, Yahaya Zango, at the Hajj Camp in Abuja as he attempted to pose as an intending pilgrim bound for Saudi Arabia.
Zango, who has long been on the radar of security agencies over his alleged involvement in banditry and kidnapping operations across northern Nigeria, was captured during a routine screening exercise at the camp for 2025 Hajj pilgrims.
According to a security official who spoke on condition of anonymity, the arrest was made possible following “credible intelligence,” which led to increased surveillance of the Hajj departure process. The suspect was said to have been intercepted while attempting to join a busload of other pilgrims headed for the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport.
“After thorough checks and monitoring, his true identity was confirmed and he was quietly detained,” the source revealed. Zango is currently in custody and undergoing interrogation as authorities work to uncover his associates and wider criminal network.
In a development that has raised alarm, security sources have also disclosed that at least four other individuals with suspected ties to organised banditry are currently listed among those scheduled to travel to Saudi Arabia from Abuja.
Among the names flagged are Madele, identified as the father of notorious bandit kingpin Ado Aliero, as well as Bello Bazamfare and a woman alleged to be the mother of infamous gang leader Gwaska Dankarami. Another individual is reportedly a sibling of Aliero.
This incident has reignited concerns about the misuse of the annual pilgrimage for cover by criminal elements. In 2024, 14 individuals with suspected ties to banditry were reportedly sponsored for Hajj, with three arrested upon their return. One of them was later controversially released, prompting public outcry.
Security agencies are said to be tightening screening procedures and intensifying intelligence efforts around this year’s Hajj to ensure that known criminals do not exploit the pilgrimage as a means of escape or cover.
Authorities have urged vigilance and cooperation from all stakeholders as efforts continue to prevent further infiltration of criminal suspects among Hajj participants.
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