Federal High Court Sentences Man to Two Decades for Concealing Bandit Information
A Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced Muhammad Sani to 20 years in prison for his role in concealing critical information about the activities of notorious bandit Danlanmi, facilitating Danlanmi’s escape.
Conviction Details and Charges
Sani, a resident of Nabi village in Niger State’s Shiroro Local Government Area, was found guilty on two of four charges related to terrorism offenses. The court concluded that Sani had conspired with Danlanmi, who remains at large, to hide information regarding Danlanmi’s illegal activities, which include supplying arms and ammunition to various criminal gangs in and around Niger State.
Specific Charges Under the Terrorism Prevention Act
The first charge detailed that on or around January 9, 2023, in Lafia, Nasarawa State, Sani intentionally concealed information that Danlanmi was a notorious bandit. This act contravened Section 26(1) of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022, which mandates reporting such knowledge to law enforcement. Failure to do so is punishable under Section 16(1)(b) of the same act.
Further Allegations Against Sani
The second count against Sani highlighted that he failed to disclose crucial information about Danlanmi’s criminal activities, despite being aware that it could significantly assist in securing an arrest. This too was in violation of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022.
Financial Transactions Linked to Criminal Activity
In addition to the concealment charges, Sani was accused of conspiring to receive ₦580,000 for the purchase of ammunition intended for criminal use. This financial transaction occurred on the same date in Lafia, indicating that he had reasonable grounds to believe that the funds would facilitate terrorism-related activities, violating multiple sections of the aforementioned act.
Sentencing and Implications
Judge Nwaito sentenced Sani to 20 years’ imprisonment for the first and second counts, effective from January 11, 2023, the day of his arrest. He will serve his time at Kuje Correctional Center in Abuja, without the option of a fine.
Broader Context of Ongoing Security Operations
This conviction is part of a broader initiative by Nigerian security agencies to combat terrorism and robbery by prosecuting individuals who facilitate such crimes through the concealment of vital information. A security source emphasized the importance of these convictions in the ongoing battle against criminal financing across the nation.
