The Department of State Services (DSS) has hinted that it jointly raided terrorist’s hideout with troops of the Nigerian Army and Police Force, in the early hours of May 15, 2023, in parts of Kaduna and Kano States.
Spokesman of the service, Dr Peter Afunanya made the disclosure to newsmen today in Abuja.
According to Dr Afunanya, during the raid in Kaduna State, the terrorists deployed Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) against the fighting forces.
He said: “One of the terrorists who wore suicide jacket blew himself up. While three suspects were arrested, items recovered upon a search on the group’s accommodation, after Police EOD had diffused other IEDs, were: two suicide jackets, one AK-47 rifle, a pistol and one laptop.
“In Kano State, two suspects were arrested while recovered items include: a pistol, eleven mobile phones, two hand grenades, one fully charged AK-47 magazine, two empty AK-47 magazines, one Peugeot 307 car and an ID card belonging to a suspect that escaped.
“Intelligence had earlier revealed that high profile terrorist targets were regrouping in the North West to carry out dastardly acts in the area. Notably, the steady Military operations in the North East have necessitated the insurgents’ escape to the North West and Central zones where they are establishing active cells.
“The Service commends the Nigerian Military and Police for their resilience and support which led to the success of the operation. The sustained interagency synergy is, without doubt, a game changer in the counter-threat actions.
“Also, the Service wishes to state and very clearly, that it will continue to collaborate with sister agencies to rid the nation of criminal elements particularly at this transition period and even beyond. This is more so that certain persons are desperate to undermine the process. But the Service will resist this and ensure a seamless event.
“It will continue to cooperate with stakeholders to achieve a peaceful environment critical to the pursuit of legitimate businesses by law abiding citizens and residents.”
Few months ago, the DSS had also arrested two suspected gunmen in Kano State.
According to him then, the DSS operatives recovered; two AK-47 assault rifles, two empty AK47 magazines, a red Boxer motorcycle and a sack of yams in which the guns were concealed.