Terrorism: Court Sentences Female Arms Courier to Death Over Ammunition Supply to Bandit Kingpin

A Federal High Court in Katsina State has sentenced a female arms courier, Hauwa’u Mukhtar, to death by hanging for her involvement in terrorism-related offences, following a successful prosecution by the Department of State Services (DSS).

The conviction marks the second death sentence secured by the DSS in June against individuals linked to terrorism activities.
Mukhtar was arrested by DSS operatives on September 16, 2023, at Jibia Motor Park, Katsina State, while allegedly attempting to transport 438 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition to Ado, a notorious bandit kingpin operating in Dunburum Forest, Zamfara State.

The DSS had filed a two-count charge against the convict before High Court No. 3, Katsina, presided over by Justice A. B. Bawale, accusing her of conspiracy to commit, aid and abet terrorism.
After reviewing the evidence presented by the prosecution, including witness testimonies, exhibits and final submissions from both parties, the court ruled that the DSS had proven its case beyond reasonable doubt and found Mukhtar guilty on both counts.

Justice Bawale subsequently sentenced her to death by hanging in line with the provisions of the Penal Code Law of Katsina State, 2021.