A Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced Muhammad Sani to 20 years’ imprisonment for concealing information about a suspected notorious bandit, Danranmi, whose escape was allegedly aided by his silence.
Justice Emeka Nwite delivered the judgment on Monday after finding Sani guilty on two counts of terrorism-related offences under the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.
Sani, a resident of Nabi Village in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, was convicted of conspiring to conceal information about Danranmi, who is alleged to have supplied arms and ammunition to kidnappers and bandits operating in parts of Niger State.
The court also found him guilty of failing to disclose information that could have assisted security agencies in apprehending the suspect.
According to the charge, the offences were committed on January 9, 2023, in Lafia, Nasarawa State.
The prosecution further alleged that Sani and the fugitive suspect conspired to receive ₦580,000 for the purchase of 150 rounds of ammunition from another individual identified as “Chairman,” knowing the ammunition was intended for terrorist activities.
He was also accused of personally receiving the money for the transaction.
Justice Nwite sentenced Sani to 20 years’ imprisonment without the option of a fine on Counts One and Two. The court ordered that the sentence should take effect from January 11, 2023, the date of his arrest.
He is to serve the jail term at the Kuje Correctional Centre in Abuja.
According to security sources, the conviction forms part of ongoing efforts by security agencies to prosecute individuals accused of supporting banditry and terrorism by withholding intelligence or facilitating terrorist activities.
(The Whistler)