Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission have arrested former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, in Kaduna State after weeks of tracking his movements.

Mamman was earlier convicted by a Federal High Court in Abuja on 12 counts of money laundering and fraud involving about ₦33.8 billion linked to the Mambilla and Zungeru hydropower projects. The court sentenced him to 75 years in prison in his absence after he failed to appear for judgment.

Sources said EFCC operatives intensified surveillance immediately after the ruling and eventually traced him to an apartment in the Rigasa area of Kaduna in the early hours of the morning. Two persons suspected of hiding him from authorities were also arrested and are being investigated.

Confirming the arrest, EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede said the former minister was picked up around 3:30 a.m. He described the operation as evidence that those who divert public funds will be pursued and brought to justice.

Olukoyede explained that Mamman is currently being held by the commission pending his transfer to a correctional facility in line with the court’s directive. He added that security agencies had been put on alert to ensure the convict had no safe haven after the judgment.

Also speaking, Director of Public Prosecution Rotimi Oyedepo said the court directed relevant agencies to enforce the ruling and ensure the convict’s transfer to a custodial centre without delay.

The EFCC further disclosed that it would review how high-profile suspects are monitored during trial to prevent future cases of defendants evading justice. The commission warned that anyone found to have assisted Mamman while he was on the run would face prosecution after investigations are concluded.

Officials also revealed that additional properties allegedly linked to the former minister had been uncovered and would be added to ongoing investigations as arrangements continue for his transfer to prison.