By Adenike Lawal
Security operatives have arrested a high-profile kidnapping suspect, Yahaya Zango, at the Hajj camp of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, while he attempted to sneak into the Saudi-bound pilgrim group.
Zango, who hails from Paikon-Kore in Gwagwalada Area Council, had been on the radar of security agencies for his alleged involvement in multiple abduction cases across the Federal Capital Territory.
His plan to flee under the cover of religious pilgrimage was foiled during a routine document screening by operatives of the Department of State Services.
Officials revealed that the fugitive was quietly picked up during verification checks on Sunday after being flagged by intelligence agents embedded within the camp.
A source at the FCT Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board confirmed the arrest and noted that Zango had successfully posed as a genuine pilgrim with full documentation until sharp-eyed operatives intervened.
Although security agencies are yet to issue a formal statement, sources say investigations are already underway to determine the full extent of his criminal network.
Zango’s arrest highlights the growing alertness of security agencies, especially at major public venues during peak travel seasons.
