DSS arraigns nine over Benue, Plateau killings

The Department of State Services (DSS) on Wednesday arraigned nine suspects before a Federal High Court in Abuja for their alleged involvement in recent deadly attacks in Benue and Plateau States.

The suspects face multiple charges ranging from unlawful possession of firearms to complicity in communal killings and reprisal attacks.

Two defendants, Haruna Adamu and Muhammad Abdullahi, both from Awe Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, were charged with four counts linked to the June 13 killings in Abinsi and Yelewata communities, Guma LGA, Benue State.

Similarly, Terkende Ashuwa and Amos Alede of Guma LGA were docked on a three-count charge for alleged reprisal attacks that led to the destruction of property and the death of 12 cattle in Ukpam village.

In a separate case, 32-year-old Halima Haliru Umar from Faskari LGA, Katsina State, was accused of withholding information on the activities of Alhaji Sani, a suspected gunrunner, kidnapper, and bandit.

The DSS also filed a six-count charge against Silas Iduh Oloche of Agatu LGA, Benue, over unlawful possession of 18 firearms, including grenades, in violation of the Firearms Act.

In Plateau State, 75-year-old Nanbol Tali and Timnan Manjo were arraigned for allegedly buying and selling two locally fabricated AK-47 rifles for ₦3 million, while Danjuma Antu of Jos North LGA was charged with unlawful possession of two pistols capable of firing 9mm rounds.

The charges follow a spate of violent attacks in Benue and Plateau that have left hundreds dead and thousands displaced in recent months.

On June 13, over 200 residents, including farmers and internally displaced persons, were killed when gunmen struck Yelewata and Daudu communities in Guma LGA.

Police authorities later announced the arrest of 28 suspects linked to the massacre.

Security sources said the arraignments underscore the DSS’s renewed commitment to accountability and swift justice.

“The prompt action reflects institutional integrity and an unwavering resolve to uphold the rule of law,” a source noted.