The Department of State Services DSS hereby informs the public that the Service and troops of the Nigerian Army and Police Force, in the early hours of 15th May 2023, simultaneously raided hideouts of insurgents and terrorists in parts of Kaduna and Kano States.
This was known in a Statement signed by the Spokesperson of the Service Peter Afunanya in Kaduna State. The Spokesperson said that the terrorists deployed Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) against the fighting forces and one of the terrorists who wore a suicide jacket blew himself up. While three suspects were arrested, items recovered upon a search of the group’s accommodation, after Police EOD had diffused other IEDs, were: two (2) suicide jackets, one (1) AK-47 rifle, a pistol, and one (1) laptop.
Afunanya also said in Kano State, two (2) suspects were arrested while recovered items include: a pistol, eleven (11) mobile phones, two (2) hand grenades, one (1) fully charged AK-47 magazine, two empty AK-47 magazines, one (1) Peugeot 307 car and an ID card belonging to a suspect that escaped.
The statement revealed that intelligence had earlier revealed that high-profile terrorist targets were regrouping in the North West to carry out dastardly acts in the area. Notably, the steady military operations in the North East have necessitated the insurgents’ escape to the North West and Central zones where they are establishing active cells.
The Service commends the Nigerian Military and Police for their resilience and support which led to the success of the operation. The sustained interagency synergy is, without doubt, a game changer in counter-threat actions.
Also, the Service wishes to state very clearly, that it will continue to collaborate with sister agencies to rid the nation of criminal elements, particularly during this transition period and even beyond.
This is more so because certain persons are desperate to undermine the process. But the Service will resist this and ensure a seamless event. It will continue to cooperate with stakeholders to achieve a peaceful environment critical to the pursuit of legitimate businesses by law-abiding citizens and residents.
Dominica Nwabufo
