Ngozi James
The Department of State Services (DSS) and troops of the Nigerian Army and Police Force, in the early hours of 15th May, 2023, raided hideouts of insurgents/terrorists in parts of Kaduna and Kano States.
During the raid in Kaduna, the terrorists deployed Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) against the fighting forces. One of the terrorists who wore suicide jacket blew himself up.
While three suspects were arrested, items recovered upon a search on the group’s accommodation, after Police EOD had diffused other IEDs, were: two suicide jackets, one AK-47 rifle, a pistol and one laptop, according to a statement on Tuesday by Dr. Peter Afunnaya, spokesperson of the DSS.
In Kano State, two suspects were arrested while recovered items include: a pistol, eleven mobile phones, two hand grenades, one fully charged AK-47 magazine, two empty AK-47 magazines, onePeugeot 307 car and an ID card belonging to a suspect that escaped, according to the statement.
“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”, ut further read.
The Service commended the Nigerian Military and Police for their resilience and support which led to the success of the operation, saying the sustained interagency synergy is, without doubt, a game changer in the counter-threat actions.
Also, the Service stated that it will continue to collaborate with sister agencies to rid the nation of criminal elements particularly at this transition period and even beyond.
” This is more so that certain persons are desperate to undermine the process. But the Service will resist this and ensure a seamless event. It will always cooperate with stakeholders to achieve a peaceful environment critical to the pursuit of legitimate businesses by law abiding citizens and residents”, it said.