A Federal High Court in Kano has sentenced a woman, Raya Haruna, to 10 years imprisonment after finding her guilty of transporting arms and ammunition to bandit groups operating in parts of Northern Nigeria.
Justice Simon Amobeda delivered the judgment on Friday, convicting Haruna on a three-count charge related to the illegal movement of firearms and providing logistical assistance to criminal groups.
The prosecution filed the charges under the Firearms Act and the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022. The laws prohibit the unlawful possession, transportation and supply of firearms, as well as offering material support to terrorist organisations and associated criminal networks.
Haruna was arrested in 2024 during a security operation targeting weapon supply routes used by bandits terrorising communities in Kano State and surrounding areas. She remained in custody throughout the trial.
In his ruling, Justice Amobeda stated that although the convict was not directly involved in carrying out attacks, her actions played a significant role in sustaining the activities of bandits and terrorists.
The judge noted that those who move weapons and ammunition for criminal groups are essential to the success of violent operations.
“Transportation of weapons and ammunition is a critical link in the chain of terrorist operations that enables them to carry out attacks that result in death, injuries and widespread destruction,” he said.
Justice Amobeda further explained that under the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, anyone who provides transportation, logistics or any form of material support that aids terrorist activities commits a serious offence punishable by law.
He described terrorism as a major threat to national security, noting that it continues to claim lives, destroy property and hinder peace and development in affected communities.
The court subsequently sentenced Haruna to 10 years imprisonment on each of the three counts without the option of a fine. The sentences are to run concurrently and take effect from the date of her arrest and detention in 2024.
The judge also ordered that the recovered arms and ammunition be transferred to the Department of State Services (DSS).
In addition, he directed prison authorities to enroll the convict in rehabilitation and reformation programmes during her incarceration.
Justice Amobeda said the judgment should serve as a strong warning to transporters, couriers and logistics operators to avoid involvement in activities that aid terrorism, banditry or other forms of criminality.