Abuja, May 17, 2023 – In a coordinated effort, the Department of State Services (DSS), along with the military and police forces, conducted a successful operation targeting terrorists’ hideouts in parts of Kaduna and Kano states.
The DSS spokesperson, Dr. Peter Afunanya, confirmed the operation, stating that the terrorists resorted to using Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) against the security forces.
During the operation, one of the terrorists wearing a suicide jacket detonated himself, while three suspects were apprehended.
A subsequent search of the group’s accommodation, after the Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team neutralized other IEDs, led to the recovery of significant items. These included two suicide jackets, an AK-47 rifle, a pistol, and a laptop.
In Kano State, the raid resulted in the arrest of two suspects. Additionally, law enforcement authorities seized a pistol, 11 mobile phones, two hand grenades, one fully charged AK-47 magazine, two empty AK-47 magazines, a Peugeot 307 car, and an ID card belonging to an escaped suspect.
The operation was conducted based on prior intelligence indicating the regrouping of high-profile terrorists in the North West region, with intentions to carry out heinous acts.
It is believed that the terrorists sought refuge in the North West due to ongoing military operations in the North East.
Dr. Afunanya commended the Nigerian military and police for their resilience and support, which contributed to the success of the operation.
He emphasized the importance of sustained interagency cooperation in countering such threats, acknowledging its significant impact.
Furthermore, he assured the public that the DSS would continue to collaborate with other security agencies to eliminate criminal elements, not only during this transitional period but also in the future.
