DSS arraigns nine over deadly attacks in Benue, Plateau states

The Department of State Services (DSS) has arraigned nine individuals before a Federal High Court in Abuja over their alleged roles in the recent killings and violence in Benue and Plateau States.

Among the charges, a suspected gunrunner was accused of unlawful possession of seven M16 rifles.

Two suspects, Haruna Adamu and Muhammad Abdullahi, both from Awe Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, face a four-count charge over the June 13 attacks in Abinsi and Yelewata, Guma LGA of Benue. The attacks left scores dead, with hundreds displaced.

Another two, Terkende Ashuwa and Amos Alede from Guma LGA, were charged on three counts for alleged reprisal attacks, including property destruction that led to the loss of 12 cattle in Ukpam village.

Separately, 32-year-old Halima Haliru Umar of Faskari LGA, Katsina State, was accused of withholding information about Alhaji Sani, identified as a gunrunner, bandit, and kidnapper.

The DSS also filed a six-count charge against Silas Iduh Oloche of Agatu LGA, Benue, for unlawful possession of 18 firearms, including grenades, in violation of Section 27 of the Firearms Act.

In Plateau State, 75-year-old Nanbol Tali and his alleged accomplice, Timnan Manjo, were arraigned for allegedly buying and selling two locally fabricated AK-47 rifles for ₦3 million. Another suspect, Danjuma Antu of Jos North LGA, was arraigned on a five-count charge for unlawful possession of pistols capable of discharging 9mm ammunition.

The arraignments follow a wave of deadly attacks in Benue and Plateau in recent months, including the June 13 massacre in Yelewata and Daudu communities of Guma LGA, where more than 200 people, including farmers and IDPs, were killed.

The DSS said the charges reflect its commitment to accountability, swift investigations, and upholding the rule of law.

DSS arraigns nine over deadly attacks in Benue, Plateau states