By Uzair Adam
The Kano State Police Command has arrested a wanted terrorist and his wife in a major operation aimed at dismantling a terrorist network attempting to establish a base in the state.
The suspect, Ahmad Adam Abba, a Chadian national, was wanted for masterminding the brutal killing of 17 people in Chad.
While he managed to escape from Nigeria, his wife and two associates—another Chadian named Jibrin Mohammed (42) and a Nigerian accomplice—were captured in a decisive police operation.
The command also recovered Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), preventing what could have been a deadly attack.
Commissioner of Police Salman Dogo Garba, speaking at a press briefing on Friday at the Bompai Police Headquarters, reaffirmed the commitment of security forces to ensuring that Kano does not become a safe haven for terrorists.
Recall that last week Friday, January 24, the police issued a security alert, warning the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities after intelligence reports suggested the presence of terrorists planning an attack in the state.
However, the timing of the warning—on the eve of the annual Maulud celebration of the Tijjaniyya sect—sparked controversy, with some accusing the police of attempting to disrupt the religious gathering.
Despite the criticisms, the command intensified its surveillance, working closely with intelligence agencies to track down suspected terrorists. Their efforts led to the arrest of Abba’s associates and the recovery of explosives.
“These criminals thought they could establish a foothold in our state, but they underestimated our resolve. There is no hiding place for them,” Garba declared.
He urged the public to continue cooperating with security agencies, stressing that intelligence-sharing is crucial in preventing security threats.
With the latest breakthrough, Kano residents remain on high alert as security forces intensify efforts to dismantle any remaining terrorist networks.