One pleads guilty as 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 over their alleged roles in the recent killings in Benue and Plateau states, with one of them pleading guilty to unlawful possession of firearms.

The accused — Terkende Ashuwa (46), Amos Alede (44), Haruna Adamu (26), Muhammed Abdullahi (48), Halima Haliru Usman (32), Timna Manjo (46), Nanbol Tali (75), Danjuma Antu (62), and Silas Iduh Oloche — face six separate charges bordering on terrorism, illegal possession of arms, and aiding violent crimes.

Timna Manjo admitted guilt to two counts of unlawful possession and trade in firearms.

The charge sheet revealed he bought and sold two locally fabricated AK-47 rifles for ₦3 million and purchased three long-range revolver rifles at ₦60,000 each for resale.

His co-defendant, Nanbol Tali, and the seven other suspects pleaded not guilty.

Prosecutors allege that Ashuwa and Alede sourced firearms from a supplier, identified as Alhaji Uba, to facilitate terrorist attacks in Ukpam village, Benue State. Adamu and Abdullahi are accused of attending meetings in Nasarawa State linked to killings in Abinsi and Yelwata villages, while Usman allegedly transported 302 rounds of AK-47 ammunition into Plateau State.

Justice Emeka Nwite ordered that the nine defendants remain in DSS custody but must be given access to their lawyers.

Their cases were adjourned to October 2, 9, and 17 for continuation of trial.

In a related development, the DSS filed a fresh five-count charge against Huzaifa Ahamad Haruna, also known as Huzaifa Dogo, who was allegedly arrested with seven M16 rifles.

He is accused of transporting the weapons to support terrorist activities in Plateau State.

The DSS said the arraignments reflect its determination to thoroughly investigate and prosecute those involved in terrorism and violent crimes across the country.