DSS Arraigns Nine Benue, Plateau Killings Suspects

The Department of State Services on Wednesday arraigned nine suspects before the Federal High Court in Abuja over their alleged roles in violent attacks that claimed lives and destroyed property in Benue and Plateau States.

The defendants are facing multiple charges, including terrorism, reprisal killings, unlawful possession of firearms, and aiding criminal networks.

According to court filings, Haruna Adamu and Muhammad Abdullahi from Awe Local Government Area of Nasarawa State were charged with four counts relating to coordinated assaults on Abinsi and Yelewata communities in Guma LGA of Benue on June 13.

Also arraigned were Terkende Ashuwa and Amos Alede, both from Guma, on a three-count charge for alleged reprisal violence in Ukpam village, where property was destroyed and livestock killed.

Investigators linked the incidents to ongoing communal clashes that have displaced families and stretched security resources.

The DSS accused Halima Haliru Umar, 32, from Faskari LGA in Katsina, of withholding intelligence on the movement of arms tied to a suspected dealer and kidnap kingpin, Alhaji Sani.

Another suspect, Silas Iduh Oloche from Agatu LGA in Benue, was charged with unlawful possession of 18 firearms, including grenades.

In Plateau State, 75-year-old Nanbol Tali and Timnan Manjo were accused of selling two locally fabricated AK-47 rifles for N3m, while 62-year-old Danjuma Antu of Jos North was arraigned for unlawful possession of two pistols and 9mm ammunition.

The charges, filed by the Director of Public Prosecutions on behalf of the Federal Government, highlight the escalating insecurity in the North Central region, where communal violence and arms trafficking continue to fuel bloodshed.

The court is expected to hear bail applications at the next sitting.

DSS Arraigns Nine Benue, Plateau Killings Suspects is first published on The Whistler Newspaper