The Department of State Services (DSS) has detained five security operatives over their alleged involvement in the controversial return of former Kaduna State governor, Nasir el-Rufai, from Egypt on February 12.
El-Rufai was reportedly confronted by security agents at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, in a failed arrest attempt, during which his passport was seized. He later honoured an invitation from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), was granted bail, and was subsequently rearrested by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
The DSS alleged that el-Rufai bribed officials to evade arrest, a claim he has denied, describing the case as a political witch-hunt.
Following a joint investigation, five officers were detained: Ayuba Yakubu (ASP), Murtala Inuwa (DSS), Najeeb Murtala (NIS), Musa Adamu (AVSEC), and Salihu Victor (AVSEC).
According to the DSS, the officers allegedly received bribes to grant unauthorized access to restricted airport areas and obstruct lawful security operations. They have been handed over to the ICPC for prosecution, while others face administrative sanctions.
By Bimbo Adenrele, Abuja
