DSS: Terrorists planning attacks on worship, fun centres during Sallah

The Department of State Services (DSS) has warned Nigerians to be wary of terrorists’ attacks during the Eid-el-Kabir celebration slated for June 28, 2023.

The DSS stated that reports reaching it indicated plans of attack on worship and recreational facilities before and during the Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

The DSS spokesman, Dr Peter Afunanya, who made this known via a statement issued on Thursday, said the reports are corroborated by the recovery of primed Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) from suspected terrorists during a joint operation by the department and its sister security agencies.

Afunanya noted that the secret police conducted raids on criminal hideouts in Kogi and Nasarawa states on Monday in collaboration with the Nigerian Army and the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).

He disclosed that the operation along Abuja-Keffi Expressway in Keffi Local Government Area of Nasarawa State led to the arrest of a suspected gunrunner, adding that 486 rounds of 7.62 x39mm calibre ammunition, 22 primed IEDs, N31,500, and one Volkswagen Golf car with registration number RBC202XA were recovered during the operation.

The DSS spokesperson stated that the joint security team raided the hideout of a one-time jailbreaker and notorious gang leader at Ejule in Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi State on Thursday.

Afunanya noted that the suspect’s gang members engaged the troops in a gun duel, saying the gang leader was neutralised while others fled.

He listed the items recovered at the scene to include one AK47 rifle with three fully loaded magazines, six locally-fabricated weapons, two phones, and charms.

He enjoined operators and patrons of public places, including markets and malls to be watchful and report any suspicious movements and persons to relevant security agencies.

Afunanya assured that the DSS would continue to partner with sister security agencies for necessary proactive drills to frustrate criminals and their activities.

The Star