The Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has confirmed that the Department of State Services (DSS) has arrested Abubakar Abba, leader of the deadly Mahmuda terror group.

The Mahmuda gang has been one of the most feared criminal groups in Nigeria, attacking and terrorising people living near Kainji National Park in Niger State.

Security agents tracked Abba for weeks before finally catching him in Wawa, Borgu Local Government Area. He has been taken to Abuja for further investigation.

Speaking through his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, Governor Bago said the capture of Abba is a big win for both the people of Niger State and the country as a whole.

The Governor praised the DSS for their intelligence-led work, which made it possible to catch the terrorist alive without any exchange of gunfire.

He also thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, saying the arrest is proof of the President’s determination to tackle insecurity and protect Nigerians.

Governor Bago added that the success of this operation shows that with skill, planning, and strong will, even the most dangerous criminals can be caught without bloodshed.