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Tag: DSS

  • Many injuried as police destroy insurgents’ camp in five-hour gun duel

    Many injuried as police destroy insurgents’ camp in five-hour gun duel

    Police in Anambra State said they have destroyed one of the militia camps belonging to the Eastern Security Network of the Indigenous People of Biafra (ESN/IPOB) in Aguluezechukwu, Aguata Local Government Area of the state.

    Command spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga who disclosed this on Thursday said the feat was achieved during a raid of the area jointly carried out by the Army, operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) and State Vigilante.

    He said several of the insurgents escaped with varying degrees of gunshot wounds during exchange fire which lasted over five hours.

    He listed items recovered from the camp to include white Lexus 470 SUV and several Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs).

    According to him: “Anambra Police – led Joint Security Force, Aguata, comprising troops from the 302 Artillery Regiment (GS), 14 Field Engineer Regiment, Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) and Anambra State Vigilante (Agunechemba) in the early hours of 2nd September 2025 carried out a coordinated joint operation at an ESN/IPOB militia camp located in Aguluezechukwu, Aguata Local Government Area.

    Read Also: Police arrest 5,936 crime suspects, recover 360 firearms in crackdown

    “During the operation, which lasted over five hours, the militia members were successfully dislodged, their camp destroyed, while several of them escaped with varying degrees of gunshot wounds. 

    “A white Lexus 470 SUV and several Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) were also recovered from the scene.

    “The area has since been stabilized and remains calm as monitoring continues to ensure the safety and security of residents, while efforts are ongoing to arrest the fleeing suspects.

    “The Anambra State Police Command reassures Ndi Anambra of its unwavering commitment to sustaining the fight against criminality and restoring peace across the State.”

  • DSS arraigns nine over Benue, Plateau killings

    DSS arraigns nine over Benue, Plateau killings

    …one pleads guilty to unlawful possession of firearms

    …files fresh charge against suspected gunrunner arrested with seven M16 Rifles

    The Department of State Services (DSS) on Wednesday arraigned nine individuals before a Federal High Court in Abuja over their alleged complicity in recent killings in Benue and Plateau states.

    The nine, named as defendants in six separate charges, took turns to enter their pleas to the allegations raised against them, including unlawful possession and dealing in firearms, assisting in terrorism activities, among others.

    Those arraigned are Terkende Ashuwa (46 years) and Amos Alede (44 years) names are in the charge marked: FHC/ABJ/CR/448/2025; Haruna Adamu (26) and Muhammed Abdullahi (48), in the charge marked: FHC/ABJ/CR/449/2025, and Halima Haliru Usman (32), in the charge marked: FHC/ABJ/CR/450/2025.

    Others are Timna Manjo (46) and Nanbol Tali (75 years) in the charge marked: FHC/ABJ/CR/451/2025, Danjuma Antu (62) in the charge marked: FHC/ABJ/CR/452/2025 and Silas Iduh Oloche, named in a six-count charge marked: FHC/ABJ/CR/453/2025.

    Out of the nine, only Manjo pleaded guilty to two out of the four counts contained in the charge on which he was arraigned with Tali.

    Manjo pleaded guilty to counts one and three on the charge sheet.

    The counts, two which Manjo pleaded guilty, are: “That you, Timnan Manjo of First Baptist Church, Mangu LGA, Plateau State and Nanbol Tali of Cocin LCC, Heipang, Barkin ladi LGA, Plateau State, Adults, males, sometime between July and August, 2025, at Barkin Ladin LGA, Plateau State, without a licence, did engage in buying and selling of two locally fabricated AK47 rifles at the rate of N3,000,000, and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 9 of the Firearms Act 2004 and punishable under Section 27 (1) of the same Act.

    *That you, Timnan Manjo of First Baptist Church, Mangu LGA, Plateau State, adult, male, sometime in July, 2025, at Mangu LGA, Plateau State, without licence, did engage in buying of three long-range Revolver Rifles at the rate of N60,000 each, from one Chomo, for resell, and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 9 of Firearms Act 2004 and punishable under Section 27 (1) of the same Act.

    Ashuwa of Ukpam village and Alede of Akawe Tokula Polytechnic (both of Guma Local Government Area of Benue State are alleged, in a three-count charge, to have, in July, attended at Couch Bar, Daudu village, a meeting in connection with acts of terrorism.

    They were also accused of “knowingly soliciting or rendering support by receiving material assistance of locally-made guns and AK-47 rifle from one Alhaji Uba for the  commissioning of acts of terrorism, to wit: destroying private property resulting in an economic loss of 12 cattle in Ukpam age, Benue State.”

    Adamu of Kasono village and  Abdullahi of Jangar Gare village,  both in Awe Local Government Area, Nasarawa State, are, in a four-count charge, said to have, on June 13, participated in a meeting alongside Musa Beniyon, Bako Malowa, Ibrahim Tunga, Azara Ahmlnadu, Legu Musa, Adamu Yale, Boddi Ayuba and Pyeure Damina, among others, which, in your knowledge, is concerned and connected to the commissioning of acts of terrorism and killings in Abinsi and Yelwata Villages, Guma LGA, Benue State.”

    Read Also: Benue, Plateau killings: DSS files charges against nine suspects

    Adamu and Abdullahi are also accused of “knowingly conceal information about planned acts of terrorism and killings in Abinsi and Yelwata Villages, Guma LGA, Benue State between 13th and 14th June, 2025, which you know to be of material assistance in apprehending and preventing the commissioning of acts of terrorism, but failed to disclose the information to any law enforcement or security officer.”

    Mrs. Umar of Unguwan Boka, Faskari LGA, Katsina State, is alleged, in a four-count charge, to have on July 7 at Barkin Ladi LGA and Jos North LGA of Plateau State, attempted to render support for the commission of acts of terrorism by providing material assistance and transportation of 302 rounds of AK-47 rifle live ammunition.

    She is also said to have, on the same date, had in her possession 302 rounds of AK-47 rifle ammunition.

    In a four-count charge, Manjo of First Baptist Church, Mangu LGA and Tali of Cocin LCC, Heipang, Barkin Ladi LGA, both of Plateau State, are said to have, sometime in August 9 at Barkin Ladin LGA, Plateau State, had in their possession a locally fabricated AK-47 rifle without a license.

    Manjo is, in count three, accused of engaging in the buying of three long-range revolver rifles at the rate of N60,000 each, from one Chomo, for resell.

    He was also said to have engaged in buying two locally-fabricated AK-47 rifles at the rate of N300,000 from one Vom, which he allegedly “resold to an unidentified Reverend at the rate N400,000.”

    In a five-count charge, Antu of Jos North, Plateau State is alleged to have, “sometime on 27th June, 2025, along Kabong Primary School, Jos North LGA, Plateau State, without licence, did have in your possession three live rounds of 9mm ammunition, and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 8(1) of Firearms Act 2004 and punishable under Section 27 (1) of the same Act.”

    He is also alleged to have “sometime on 27th June, 2025, along Kabong Primary School, Jos North LGA, Plateau State, knowingly render material support for the commission of acts of terrorism in Plateau State, by transporting two locally fabricated pistols, firearms capable of discharging 9mm ammunition, three  live rounds of 9mm ammunition and one  five round of 8mm ammunition and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 13 (1) of Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.”

    After the defendants pleaded to the charges, Justice Emeka Nwite ordered that they should be remanded in DSS’ custody and be granted access to their lawyers.

    As it relates to the charges involving Ashuwa, Alede, and Halima Umar, Justice Nwite adjourned till October 2 for trial.

    He adjourned the charge involving Adamu & Abdullahi to October 9 for the commencement of trial, while the charges involving Manjo, Tali, Antu and Oloche till October 17 for trial.

    Also on Wednesday, the DSS filed a fresh five-count charge against a suspected gunrunner, allegedly arrested with seven M16 assault rifles – Huzaifa Ahamad Haruna (aka Huzaifa Dogo).

    Some counts in the charge read, “That you, Huzaifa Ahamad Haruna (aka Huzaifa Dogo) of Dogo village, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area (LGA), Plateau State, Adult, male, sometime on 30% August, 2025, at Barkin Ladi LGA and Mangu LGA of Plateau State, did knowingly render support for the commission of acts of terrorism by providing material assistance for and transportation of seven  M-16 assault rifles with serial numbers:0700422; 24006914; 00513011; 07000135; 24007165; 07000417; and 07000822, as well as seven empty magazines in a green coloured Opel Vectra vehicle with Reg No: BSA-732-AE (Plateau), and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 13 (1) of Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

    “That you, Huzaifa Ahamad Haruna of Dogo village, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area (LGA), Plateau State, adult, male, sometime in March, 2025, at Barkin Ladi LGA of Plateau State,  did knowingly render support for the commission of acts of terrorism by providing material assistance for and transportation of five  M-16 assault rifles from Dogo Village, Barkin Ladi LGA to one Wakili Julde in Wase LGA, Plateau State, and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 13 (1) of Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.”

  • Benue, Plateau killings: DSS files charges against nine suspects

    Benue, Plateau killings: DSS files charges against nine suspects

    The Department of State Services (DSS) has initiated terrorism proceedings against nine individuals, including a 75-year old man, over their alleged terrorism activities and unlawful possession of arms and ammunition in relation to the recent killings in Benue and Plateau states.

    They are named as defendants in six separate charges filed yesterday by the DSS before the Federal High Court in Abuja.

    Listed as defendants in the six charges are Terkende Ashuwa (46 years), Amos Alede (44 years) (in the charge marked: FHC/ABJ/CR/448/2025; Haruna Adamu (26) and Muhammed Abdullahi (48) in the charge marked: FHC/ABJ/CR/449/2025, and Halima Haliru Usman (32) in the charge marked: FHC/ABJ/CR/450/2025.

    Others are Timna Manjo (46) and Nanbol Tali (75) in the charge marked: FHC/ABJ/CR/451/2025, and Danjuma Antu (62) in the charge marked: FHC/ABJ/CR/452/2025.

    READ ALSO: Exemplary Olatunjis

    Ashuwa of Ukpam village and Alede of Akawe Tokula Polytechnic (both of Guma Local Government Area of Benue State) are alleged, in a three-count charge, to have, last month, attended, at Couch Bar, Daudu village, a meeting in connection with acts of terrorism.

    They also accused of  “knowingly solicit or render support by receiving material assistance of locally-made guns and AK47 rifle from one Alhaji Uba for the commissioning of acts of terrorism to wit: causing destruction to private property resulting in an economic loss of 12 cattle in Ukpam age, Benue State.”

    Adamu of Kasono village and Abdullahi of Jangar Gare village, in Awe Local Government Area, Nasarawa State are, in a four-count charge, said to have, on June 13 “participated in a meeting alongside Musa Beniyon, Bako Malowa, Ibrahim Tunga, Azara Ahmlnadu, Legu Musa, Adamu Yale, Boddi Ayuba and Pyeure Damina among others, which in your knowledge is concerned and connected to the commissioning of acts of terrorism and killings in Abinsi and Yelwata Villages, Guma Local Government Area, Benue State.”

    Adamu and Abdullahi are also accused of “knowingly conceal information about planned acts of terrorism and killings in Abinsi and Yelwata Villages, Guma Local Government Area, Benue State between 13th and 14th June, 2025 , which you know to be of material assistance in apprehending and preventing the commissioning of acts of terrorism, but failed to disclose the information to any law enforcement or security officer.”

    Mrs. Umar of Unguwan Boka, Faskari Local Government Area, Katsina State, is alleged, in a four-count charge, to have on July 7 at Barkin Ladi LGA and Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State, attempted to render support for the commission of acts of terrorism by providing material assistance and transportation of 302 rounds of AK-47 rifle live ammunitions.

    She is also said to have, on the same date, had in her possession 302 rounds of AK-47 rifle five ammunitions.

    In a four-count charge, Manjo of First Baptist Church, Mangu Local Government Area and Tali of Cocin LCC, Heipang, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area , both of Plateau State, are said to have sometime in August 9 at Barkin Ladin Local Government Area, Plateau State, had in their possession a fabricated AK-47 rifle without a licence.

    Manjo is, in count three, accused of engaging in the buying of three long-range revolver rifles at the rate of N60,000) each, from one Chomo, for resell.

    He was also said to have engaged in buying two local AK-47 rifles at the rate of N300,000 from one Vom, which he allegedly “resold to an unidentified Reverend at the rate N400,000.”

    In a five-count charge, Antu of Jos North, Plateau State is alleged to have, “sometime on 27th June, 2025, along Kabong Primary School, Jos North Local Government Area, Plateau State, without licence, did have in your possession three live rounds of 9mm ammunition, and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 8(1) of Firearms Act 2004 and punishable under Section 27 (1) of the same Act.”

    He is also alleged to have “sometime on 27th June, 2025, on Kabong Primary School, Jos North Local Government Area, Plateau State, knowingly render material support for the commission of acts of terrorism in Plateau.State, by transporting two locally fabricated pistols firearms capable of discharging 9mm ammunition calibre, three live rounds of 9mm ammunition and one five round of 8mm ammunition and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 13 (1) of Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.”

  • DSS urges court to admit statements by terror suspects accused of spying on US, Israel’s interests

    DSS urges court to admit statements by terror suspects accused of spying on US, Israel’s interests

    The Department of State Services (DSS) has urged a Federal High Court in Abuja to admit in evidence statements made by three terror suspects accused of spying on American and Israeli interests in Nigeria for certain individuals in Iran.

    Haruna Ali Abbas, Ibrahim Hussaini Musa and Adam Suleiman were arrested in Kano and Lagos in 2013 and were arraigned on terrorism-related charges.

    In the course of trial, the defendants objected to the admissibility of the extra-judicial statements they made during investigation, claiming not to have made them voluntarily. This prompted the court to conduct a trial-within-trial.

    On Wednesday, lawyers to parties adopted their final written addresses in relation to the trial-within-trial, following which Justice Emeka Nwite adjourned ruling till a date to be communicated to the parties.

    Prosecuting lawyer, Bello Abu, while adopting his final written address, took the court through the evidence supplied by the prosecution in the trial-within-trial to establish that the defendants made the statement voluntarily.

    The DSS counsel faulted a claim by the defendants that they were compelled to make the statements. He argued that such came as an afterthought.

    He prayed the court to admit the statements in evidence and proceed with the substantive trial.

    Defence lawyers – Aliyu Yawuri, Bala Dakun and Bello Ibrahim – argued otherwise, and prayed the court to reject the statements.

    Read Also: Trusted friend betrayed me, revealed cat to DSS – Igboho

    According to the charge, marked: FHC/ABJ/CR/129/2014, Abbas was said to have been arrested on March 16, 2013 at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano on his way from Lebanon.

    Abbas is accused of recruiting young Nigerians, including Musa and Suleiman, for terrorism training in Iran.

    He is also accused of participating in terrorist meetings, and equally alleged to have rendered support to an act of terrorism by agreeing to send persons for terrorist training in Iran.

    Abbas is equally accused of “embarking on an act preparatory to an act of terrorism by compiling a list of American and Israeli concerns in Lagos, and their locations in map which included USA Consular office in Lagos and sent them to one Abu Ali in Iran using coded language with encryption software through his email addresses.”

    On their part, Musa and Suleiman are charged with “conspiracy to do an act preparatory to an act of terrorism by obtaining Nigeria’s international passport and Iranian visa for the purpose of travelling to Iran for terrorist training.”

    They are equally accused of “carrying on an act preparatory to an act of terrorism by carrying out in Abuja, Kano and Lagos surveillance on United States of America and Israeli embassies preparatory to terrorist attack.”

  • Owo church attackers have links with foreign terrorist groups, DSS tells court

    Owo church attackers have links with foreign terrorist groups, DSS tells court

    The Department of State Services (DSS) has cautioned a Federal High Court in Abuja against granting bail to the five men being prosecuted over their alleged involvement in the June 5, 2022, attack at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, Owo, Ondo State, because of their alleged link with foreign terrorist groups.

    The DSS, in a counter-affidavit to the defendants’ bail application, also raised concern about their capacity to interfere with the prosecution’s witnesses, if granted bail, because of their alleged antecedents and propensity for violence.

    The five are: Idris Abdulmalik Omeiza (25), Al Qasim Idris 20), Jamiu Abdulmalik (26), Abdulhaleem Idris (25) and Momoh Otuho Abubakar (47).

    The five defendants were arraigned on August 11 on a nine-count terrorism charge that the DSS filed against them.

    In the counter-affidavit, the secret police stated that the offences for which the defendants are standing trial are serious and could result in capital punishment if convicted.

    It added that the defendants are standing trial for acts of terrorism, which led to the death of about 40 persons and caused grievous injury to over 100 worshipers at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, Owo, Ondo State, on June 5, 2022.

    The DSS said: “There is a very high likelihood of the defendants evading trial because of their connection to foreign fighters linked to the Al-Shabab terrorist group.

    Read Also: Group lauds DSS DG over arrest of Ansaru terrorist leaders

    “The defendants’ accomplices are still at large and have been making frantic efforts to monitor their trial, intimidate witnesses, and free the defendants from lawful custody.”

    The secret police added that it was “currently investigating the leads to apprehend those individuals planning to intimidate witnesses and compromise the trial in the interest of the applicants.

    “The prosecution witnesses have expressed fears of attacks by the defendants’ cohorts and have stated that they will not attend court sessions except their fears are allayed.

    “This necessitated the filing of an ex parte application for the witnesses’ protection.

    “The prosecution has demonstrated the readiness for a speedy trial of the substantive charge. The defendants have not presented any evidence to show that they have credible sureties.

  • UPDATED: Owo Catholic church attackers have link with foreign terrorist groups, DSS tells court

    UPDATED: Owo Catholic church attackers have link with foreign terrorist groups, DSS tells court

    The Department of State Services (DSS) has cautioned a Federal High Court in Abuja against granting bail to the five men being prosecuted over their alleged involvement in the June 5, 2022 attack at St. Francs Xavier Catholic Church, Owo, Ondo State in view of their alleged link with foreign terrorist groups.

    The DSS, in a counter-affidavit to the defendants’ bail application, also raised concern about their capacity to interfere with prosecution’s witnesses if granted bail in view their alleged antecedent and propensity for violence.

    The five are: Idris Abdulmalik Omeiza (25 years), Al Qasim Idris 20 years), Jamiu Abdulmalik (26 years), Abdulhaleem Idris (25 years) and Momoh Otuho Abubakar (47 years).

    The five defendants were arraigned on August 11 on a nine-count terrorism charge, marked: FHC/ABJ/CR/301/2025 filed by the DSS).

    In the counter-affidavit, the DSS stated that the offences for which the defendants are standing trial are very serious, with capital punishment if convicted. 

    It added that the defendants are standing trial for acts of terrorism, which led to the death of about 40 persons and caused grievous injury to over 100 worshipers at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, Owo, Ondo State on 5th June, 2022. 

    The DSS said: “There is very high likelihood of defendants evading trial in view of their connection to foreign fighters linked to Al-Shabab terrorist group.

    “The defendants’ accomplices are still at large and have been making frantic efforts to monitor their trial, intimidate witnesses and free the defendants from lawful custody.” 

    The DSS disclosed that it was “currently investigating the leads with a view to apprehending those individuals, planning to intimidate witnesses and compromise the trial in the interest of the applicants. 

    “The prosecution witnesses have expressed fears of attacks by defendants’ cohorts and have stated that they will not attend court sessions except their fears were allayed. 

    “This necessitated the filing of an ex-parte application for witness protection. 

    “The prosecution has demonstrated readiness for speedy trial of the substantive charge. That defendants have not presented any evidence to show that they have credible sureties. 

    “It will not be in the interest of justice and security of prosecution witnesses to grant the application for bail,” the DSS said.

    Defence lawyer, Abdullahi Mohammad had, while moving the bail application on Tuesday, noted that his client’s have been in custody since they were arrested in 2022.

    Mohammad said his clients were ready to present credible and reliable sureties to demonstrate their willingness to stand trial.

    Prosecuting lawyer, Dr. Calistus Eze urged the court to reject the bail application for being unmeritorious.

    Eze stated that there are ongoing threats to would be witnesses of the prosecution, which the defence lawyer is aware of.

    After taking arguments from both lawyers, Justice Emeka Nwite adjourned till September 10 for ruling on the bail application.

    Earlier at the commencement of proceedings, Eze told the court that although the case was scheduled for Tuesday for the prosecution to open its case, it will not be able to proceed because the DSS has handed the case to a senior lawyer, Ayodeji Adedipe (SAN) to lead the prosecuting team.

    Eze prayed the court for an adjornment to a later date before which the DSS would have processed the necessary fiat from the office of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) to enable Adedipe to fully take over the handling of the case.

    Mohammad did not object to Eze’s request for an adjornment. He also did not object to another application by Eze, seeking the protection of the identity and other personal particulars of the prosecution’s witnesses.

    Read Also: Owo Catholic church attackers have link with foreign terrorist groups, DSS tells court

    In the application, the prosecution prayed the court to issue an order to protect the identity and other personal particulars of the prosecution witnesses and an order allowing the prosecution witnesses to testify while hooded and veiled off from the view of all other individuals except the counsel on both sides. 

    The prosecution also urged the court to issue an order to prevent the mentioning of the real names of prosecution’s witnesses in its orders, judgments or records which are acces:ibie to the public, and an order allowing witnesses should be identified with a combination of some alphabets.

    In a brief ruling, Justice Nwite granted the application.

    While exiting the court, Mohammed told journalists that although he has not had the opportunity to see his clients in custody, he was told by them that they were well attended to.

    Tuesday’s proceedings were also witnessed by two lawyers – Edward Ogar and Vincent Adodo – who held watching brief for the Catholic Diocese of Ondo.

  • DSS gets thumbs-up for capturing terrorist leaders

    DSS gets thumbs-up for capturing terrorist leaders

    The Northern Ethnic Youth Group Assembly  (NEYGA) has praised the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu for confirming weeks of speculation on the capture of two most-wanted leaders of terrorist groups in Nigeria.

    The NSA had at a press conference on Saturday in Abuja announced the capture of the leadership of the ANSARU terrorist organisation, otherwise known as Jama’atu Ansarul Muslimina fi-Biladis Sudan, Nigeria’s Al-Qaeda affiliate, and the Mahmudawa terrorist group.

    The terrorists’ leaders are Amir Mahmud Mohammed Usman, aka Abu Baraa, and the Deputy Amir Marmuda.

    The media had for sometime been awash with reports on the capture of the terrorist group leaders by the DSS. The secret police failed to confirm or deny the speculation.

    Last Tuesday, Niger State Governor, Mohammed Bago became the first government official to confirm the capture of the terrorist leaders.

    He praised President Bola Tinubu for carrying out sweeping reforms in the military and security sectors, particularly, for appointing competent heads of military and security agencies. Governor Bago specifically commended the DSS for the capture of the two most-wanted terrorists.

    In a statement yesterday in Abuja, the northern group expressed satisfaction with the NSA for publicly addressing a security issue they said had troubled most parts of the North.

    Read Also: BREAKING: DSS arrests PDP agent with N30m cash for alleged vote-buying in Kaduna

     More significant, they said, was the NSA’s reference to the fact that it was an intelligence-led operation, which included weeks of surveillance , tracking and use of human assets, that led to the capture of the terrorists’ leaders. This, noted the group, lent credence to the statement by Governor Bago and reports quoting various other community sources that it was a covert operation by the DSS that resulted in the capture of the terror kingpins.

    The statement was signed by NEYGA spokesperson, Ibrahim Dan-Musa.

    “As a group with special interest in happenings in Nigeria, especially the northern part of this great country, we have been consistent in observing the new approach of covertness and studied silence by the  new DSS leadership that has been working tirelessly to rid our region of insecurity.

    “We are particularly happy with the kind of DSS leadership we now have that is not interested in self-adulation or self-praise, but in results. Even when it was clear to all that the DSS was behind these security gains, the leadership of this security service refused to take the credit. We are pleased to note that this is in line with the DG’s promise on assumption of office to return the Service to covertness.

    “We are particularly pleased that, even after the NSA mentioned several times that the feat was a result of intelligence -led operations, the DSS Director General, Mr. Tosin Ajayi, who was physically present at the press conference, did not behave like someone whose agency has just recorded a major milestone in the global war on terror.”

    On Ajayi, the group added: “As Assistant Director in charge of Operations in Kaduna, Mr. Ajayi, in 2009  coordinated the rescue of a Canadian woman, Julie Ann Mulligan (45 years old at the time), who had been kidnapped whilst on a Rotary International exchange programme. The operation involved the same covert approach; surveillance, tracking and use of human assets, which resulted in locating Mulligan in a village near Kaduna municipal. No ransom was paid, no single shot was fired, and, of course, there were no casualties during Mulligan’s rescue. We remember that, at the time, the Canadian and Kaduna State Governments, as well as Rotary International, issued statements commending the DSS.”

  • DSS releases three detainees wrongfully accused of belonging to IPOB/ESN

    DSS releases three detainees wrongfully accused of belonging to IPOB/ESN

    The Department of State Services (DSS) on Tuesday released three persons detained on suspicion of belonging to the outlawed Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB) and its militant wing, Eastern Security Network (ESN), accused of involvement in the killing of seven Fulani cattle herders, The Nation has gathered.

    The Service also said it is reviewing more than 20 cases of persons believed to have been wrongfully detained, as a key part of the reforms being initiated by the new Director General of the secret police, Mr. Oluwatosin Ajayi.

    Abuja-based human rights lawyer, Mr. Deji Adeyanju, who posted these on his verified social media handles on Tuesday, said the trio of Augustine Udemba, Nelson Onyedikachi Udemba, and Ifesinachi Eze have been reunited with their families.

    The lawyer described the release as part of the ongoing reforms by the new DSS boss to reposition the Service and make it rule of law-compliant.

    This, he said, included reviewing the cases of those in custody, charging them to court where required, and releasing those wrongfully detained.

    He stated, “We are currently working on more than 20 cases with the service and thank the DG of the DSS for his commitment to ensuring the right thing is done. We are aware that there are hundreds of Nigerians with similar issues, and we are further appealing to the DG for a speedy process in the ongoing reforms.”

    While the lawyer did not state if compensation was or would be paid to the released detainees, security sources hinted to The Nation that, going by the DG’s habit of paying compensation to wrongfully detained persons, it was most likely that the trio would be compensated.

    Last week, the DSS DG directed that a businessman who owns a quarry on the Abuja-Kaduna expressway, arrested by the Service since 2022 on suspicion of kidnapping, be released and paid N10 million as compensation.

    Read Also: DSS-led hybrid squad kills 45 terrorists

    It was reported that he might get more from the DG.

    Another outstanding case was that of the payment of N20 million compensation to a Jos-based businessman who was mistakenly shot in the leg by DSS operatives in 2016.

    Even after it was established by the DSS that the man was shot in error, and a court awarded the victim N10 million as damages, two DSS DGs refused to pay the victim.

    Instead, they appealed the judgment.

    In May, the new DSS boss not only paid the businessman the N10 million awarded by the court, but he also added another N10 million and free lifetime medical services for the victim.

    The DG has promised to speedily review the case of wrongfully detained persons in the DSS custody brought to his notice, saying he wouldn’t mind the source of the information so long as it yields results.

  • DSS-led hybrid squad kills 45 terrorists

    DSS-led hybrid squad kills 45 terrorists

    • Four operatives die in fierce gun battle 
    • Bandits kill 38 hostages after collecting N50m ransom in Zamfara
    • From Nicholas Kalu, Abuja

    Troops of the Nigerian Army and hybrid forces, supported by intelligence from the Department of State Services (DSS), killed no fewer than 45 terrorists last weekend in Iburu village, Shiroro Local Government Area.

    Security sources said the DSS intercepted credible intelligence suggesting that a large number of bandits on motorcycles were advancing towards Iburu and neighbouring communities to launch deadly attacks.

    The DSS relayed this information to troops stationed nearby, prompting military response.

    A fierce gun battle followed the encounter, culminating in heavy casualties among the terrorist ranks.

    “Villagers said they counted at least 40 dead bodies believed to be those of the bandits,” a source said.

    The same source added that several of the terrorists’ motorcycles were destroyed during the confrontation.

    Despite the success, the operation was not without loss.

    Two members of the hybrid forces, comprising local fighters collaborating with the military, died.

    Four others sustained serious gunshot wounds and are receiving treatment at a hospital in the state capital.

    Read Also: Atiku, Peter Obi should step down for Tinubu’s reelection-Aiyedatiwa

    The offensive comes against the backdrop of increased intelligence-led operations by the DSS, whose recent string of tactical successes has been widely acknowledged in security circles.

    Residents of Banga village in Kaura Namoda Local Government Area of Zamfara State have been thrown into mourning following the brutal killing of 38 kidnapped villagers by bandits, despite the payment of over N50 million as ransom.

    Chairman of Kaura-Namoda Local Government Area, Mannir Haidara Kaura, said 56 persons were reportedly abducted from the village, and 18 were later released.

    He added that the freed 18 victims have been admitted to hospital for medical treatment.

    “From the information I got as the chairman of the local government, 56 were abducted by the bandits and only 18 returned.

    “We took the remaining 18 people to hospital. They are on medication. We are also preparing to go with the state government to go and see the families of those that lost their lives,” he said.

    A resident of the village, Ibrahim Banga, had earlier said the bandits invaded the community months ago and abducted 53 people.

    He explained that the kidnappers demanded N1 million per hostage, and after several weeks of efforts, the community managed to raise and deliver the sum.

    Banga, however, confirmed that only 18 of the captives were eventually released.

    “Upon their return, the freed victims recounted how the bandits had slaughtered the remaining 35 abductees, killing them one after the other during their captivity,” he said.

    He appealed to both the Federal and state governments to urgently extend military operations to the area, which he said would help restore peace, facilitate the return of displaced persons, and rescue those still held by the criminals.

  • Troops, DSS kill 45 terrorists in major operation in Niger

    Troops, DSS kill 45 terrorists in major operation in Niger

    In a coordinated offensive against banditry, troops of the Nigerian Army and hybrid forces, backed by intelligence from the Department of State Services (DSS), neutralised at least 45 terrorists in Iburu village, Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State.

    The Nation gathered that the operation took place on Friday evening, following credible intelligence that a large number of armed bandits on motorcycles were advancing towards Iburu and nearby communities to launch attacks.

    Acting swiftly, the DSS alerted nearby troops, leading to an immediate military response. A fierce gun battle ensued, resulting in heavy casualties among the terrorists.

    “Villagers said they counted at least 40 dead bodies believed to be those of the bandits,” a security source confirmed, adding that several of the attackers’ motorcycles were also destroyed.

    However, the operation was not without losses. Two members of the hybrid forces—local fighters working alongside the military—were killed in the exchange, while four others sustained serious injuries and are currently receiving treatment in the state capital.

    The offensive highlights the growing impact of intelligence-led operations in Nigeria’s fight against terrorism. The DSS has received commendation for its recent tactical successes, with this latest intervention seen as critical in averting what could have been a deadly assault on rural communities.

    Friday’s encounter also comes months after the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adeniyi, raised concerns over terrorist activity around the Babanna border, where his men narrowly escaped an ambush after seizing 500 jerrycans of petrol meant for smugglers aiding terrorists.

    The latest development underscores the persistent threat facing parts of Niger State and the importance of synergy between intelligence agencies and combat units. Residents of Iburu and surrounding villages are now returning to calm, thanks to the swift intervention and bravery of the joint security forces—a clear example of how real-time intelligence and rapid deployment can help protect vulnerable communities.

    Read Also: Troops kill ‘notorious, bandit leader’ in Sokoto

    Recently, Catholic Bishop of Maiduguri Diocese, John Bakeni, has lauded the DSS and the Nigerian Army for successfully rescuing Reverend Father Alphonsus Afina, who was kidnapped on June 1 by Boko Haram insurgents.

    Father Afina’s kidnapping in Gworza, Borno State, had grabbed global headlines, as he had served as a priest in Alaska from September 2017 through 2024. Kidnapped alongside the priest were, at the time, an unspecified number of fellow travellers on the Liman Kara-Gwoza road in Gwoza LGA of Borno State.

    Father Afina and 10 women were rescued by DSS operatives in the State. The operatives were supported by troops of the Nigerian Army. No ransom was paid for the rescued victims.

    This was just as DSS officers in Zamfara State, also with support from troops of the Nigerian Army, recently rescued 32 kidnap victims in Shinkafi LGA of the state. Security sources disclosed that the rescued victims included 27 women and five young boys, who had spent between two and four months in captivity.