Katsina woman Hauwa’u Mukhtar sentenced to death for terrorism

A Federal High Court sitting in Katsina has sentenced a woman, Hauwa’u Mukhtar, to death by hanging after finding her guilty of terrorism-related offences, including conspiracy and aiding terrorist activities.

The judgment, delivered by Justice A.B. Bawale, followed the successful prosecution of Mukhtar over her alleged involvement in supplying ammunition to a suspected bandit network operating in Nigeria’s North-West region.

According to court records, Mukhtar was arrested by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) on September 16, 2023, at Jibia Motor Park in Katsina State while allegedly attempting to transport 438 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition to a suspected bandit commander identified as Ado, who is believed to operate from the notorious Dunburum Forest in neighbouring Zamfara State.

The prosecution charged her with a two-count offence bordering on conspiracy to commit terrorism and aiding and abetting terrorist activities.

During the trial, the court heard evidence from the prosecution, including witness testimonies and exhibits linking the defendant to the movement of ammunition intended for criminal elements.

In his ruling, Justice Bawale held that the prosecution had established its case beyond reasonable doubt after carefully evaluating the evidence presented before the court.

The judge subsequently found Mukhtar guilty on both counts and sentenced her to death by hanging in accordance with the provisions of the Katsina State Penal Code Law, 2021.

The conviction is seen as a significant development in ongoing efforts by security agencies and the judiciary to combat terrorism, banditry and the illegal movement of arms in the country.

Security analysts have repeatedly identified the supply of weapons and ammunition as a major factor sustaining criminal activities across parts of the North-West, where armed groups continue to carry out attacks, kidnappings and other violent crimes.